SDLP leader and Foyle MP Colum Eastwood
Mr Eastwood, chair of the New Ireland Commission, previously wrote to the lead negotiators of each party to urge them to translate their clear manifesto proposals into Programme for Government commitments.
Said the Foyle MP: “The commitments in the draft Programme for Government represent a significant undertaking by the incoming Irish Government.
“An additional €1 billion for the Shared Island Fund, ramping up staffing levels in the shared island unit and a commitment to bring forward new proposals from every department will make a material difference to the lives of people across Ireland and will enhance North-South partnership working.
“I also welcome the commitment to deepen the partnership in public services based on the model adopted for paediatric cardiac services alongside tangible pledges to deepen all island infrastructure with the strategic rail review, new Derry-Dublin air routes and the completion of the A5 and Narrow Water bridge.
“These efforts will demonstrate to people the benefits of all-Ireland working.
“The additional commitment to undertake a new statistical and publication series examining economic, health, education and housing outcomes is critical for those of us working to prepare for constitutional change.
“This is the space where we can examine how to effectively integrate two civil and public services that have grown apart over the past 100 years.
“The dedication of a new John Hume Fund to be awarded to an individual for their work promoting reconciliation or shared prosperity in Europe is a fitting and deeply appreciated recognition that John’s politics and his life’s work is more necessary in our world than ever.
“These commitments are substantial and welcome.
“We will work enthusiastically with the incoming government to see that they are implemented and grown over the coming years.”
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