The Taoiseach, Mr Brian Cowen TD, has welcomed today's historic vote in the Northern Ireland Assembly requesting the devolution of policing and justice powers.
The Taoiseach said:
" I very much welcome the outcome of today’s historic vote in the Northern Ireland Assembly on the devolution of justice and policing powers.
This is a good day for the people of Northern Ireland and for everyone on this island.
It is also a historic day.
For the first time, we can look forward to policing and justice powers being exercised by democratic institutions on a cross-community basis in Northern Ireland.
It copperfastens the Good Friday Agreement, the Saint Andrews Agreement and the transformation of policing in the North.
This decision will enable the Northern Ireland Executive to work more effectively across a range of issues that are vital to the day-to-say lives of ordinary people. Crucially, these powers can be used positively to make further progress towards ending division and building a shared future.
It sends out the strongest possible message that the democratic institutions are working and the democratic will of the people to live in peace and prosperity must and will be respected.
This is a further vote of confidence in Northern Ireland’s future and further proof that there is no going back to the days of hatred and conflict.
I would like to offer my congratulations to the First Minister, Peter Robinson and the deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness, and to all of those who have worked so hard to bring this day about.
I would like to pay particular tribute to Prime Minister Brown for his unstinting efforts to resolve these difficult issues.
My deepest appreciation also goes to all of our friends in the United States, including President Obama, Secretary Clinton and the Friends of Ireland in the US Congress led by Chairman Neal, for all that they have done in recent months and years to help bring peace and progress to Ireland."
Ends
9th March 2010