Cowen: Progress in North not affected

RELATIONS between the British and Irish Governments are “based on agreements” which they are “bound to” no matter who becomes prime minister, Taoiseach Brian Cowen said last night.

While insisting he would not preempt discussions between parties on the formation of a coalition government in the wake of the British election, Mr Cowen reminded the next prime minister that “good progress” has been made on peace in the North and said he hoped this will continue.

“The relationship between the Irish and British Governments has been the engine of the peace process and continues to be crucial to the achievement of progress in the North,” Mr Cowen said in a speech in Dublin. “In the coming days a British government will take office. I and my cabinet colleagues look forward to working closely with them in the years ahead across a range of issues, but including, of course the crucial issue of Northern Ireland.”