Flanagan expresses ‘concern’ on claims Dublin is trying to ‘poach’ NI investment
Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan has expressed ‘deep concern’ at comments made by Northern Ireland First Minister and DUP leader Arlene Foster that the Republic was trying to poach business from the North in the “fear and political instability” of the post-Brexit landscape.
Flanagan admitted to making contact with Northern Irish Economy Minister Simon Hamilton for clarification on the issue.
Speaking at a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry in Tipperary, Flanagan said: “I was very concerned at these remarks and very concerned at the claim that representatives of the Irish Government were allegedly talking down the Northern Ireland economy.
“I am very concerned at allegations that representatives of the Irish Government were in any way poaching business or investors.
“I think it is important in this unique relationship for the people on this island… that we work together in order to ensure economic and social prosperity for all the people on this island. That is the priority of my Government.”
