US envoy to north likely

BARACK OBAMA would consider whether a special US envoy to the north was still necessary if elected president, a statement from the Democratic candidate said yesterday.

Ten years after the Good Friday peace accord that enshrined political power- sharing in the province, the Illinois senator would review whether an envoy or senior administration official would be most effective.

As Democrats gathered in Denver, Colorado, for their national convention, Mr Obama said the crisis in the north had passed and local people were in charge of their own destiny.

However, nationalist SDLP deputy leader Alasdair McDonnell said he was confident the north would still have influence in a Democratic White House.

A statement on behalf of Mr Obama said: “Barack Obama understands that US attention and support will be required to solidify the peace.

“He will consult with the Taoiseach, the British prime minister, and party leaders in Northern Ireland to determine whether a special US envoy... continues to be necessary or whether a senior administration official, serving as point person for Northern Ireland, would be most effective.

“As president, Barack Obama will personally engage on Irish issues whenever necessary.”

At the weekend, government partners Sinn Féin again threatened to collapse the devolved arrangements in a row over handing down policing and justice powers.

In April Obama reiterated his call for the devolution of justice and policing.

Obama’s great-great- grandfather, Falmouth Kearney, emigrated to the US from Moneygall, Co Offaly. His running mate Joe Biden has an Irish/ American background.