The Taoiseach and Tánaiste are currently in Scotland for the British-Irish Council meeting, where they are engaging in discussions alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and leaders from the devolved administrations of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales, as well as representatives from the Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey.
Also attending the talks are Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly. This marks the 42nd meeting of the British-Irish Council, an intergovernmental forum established as part of the Good Friday Agreement.
The main topic for discussion at the summit in Edinburgh is the financing of a just transition, with a focus on the potential economic benefits of clean power and the sharing of best practices between Ireland and Britain.
Ahead of the summit, Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney emphasized the significance of this milestone, noting that the British-Irish Council, which was created 25 years ago, has proven to be a valuable partnership in times of change and challenge. He stated that the council’s 42nd summit is an opportunity to address the critical issue of climate change and the transition to a sustainable economy. Swinney highlighted the urgency of collaboration and sharing knowledge to tackle the challenges of the next 25 years.
In addition, both Mr. Harris and Mr. Martin confirmed that they would hold informal talks on the formation of a new government, with more detailed discussions planned in Dublin next week.