Visit is expression of our desire to engage with our unionist neighbours

THE engagement in Belfast this week involving the President of Ireland, the Queen of England and the North’s First and Deputy First Ministers Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness carries with it significant symbolic, political and emotional resonance for the people of Ireland.

Sinn Féin is very mindful that the Irish republican and nationalist experience with the British monarchy and the British state over centuries has been tragic and difficult.

The vexed and unresolved issue of sovereignty is at the heart of the flawed relationship between the island of Ireland and our nearest neighbour.