Secretary of State embarks on NI August engagement programme
James Brokenshire on intensive round of visits and meetings with businesses, political leaders and community groups.
Championing Northern Ireland’s interests will be the priority of Secretary of State for Northern Ireland James Brokenshire this month as he carries out an intensive round of visits and meetings with businesses, political leaders and community groups.
In a series of all-day visits set to run throughout the remainder of August, building on his visit to the North West at the end of July, the Secretary of State is set to reach nearly every Parliamentary constituency in Northern Ireland in the next two weeks.
He will be meeting as many local businesses, civic groups and political leaders as possible as part of the Government’s effort to ensure Northern Ireland’s voice is heard in the forthcoming EU negotiations.
Speaking during his first stop in North Antrim on Tuesday 16 August, at the world-renowned Bushmills Distillery, the Secretary of State said:
I have seen first-hand the dynamism, creativity and diversity of Northern Ireland’s businesses and spoken about the UK Government’s priorities here – political stability, economic prosperity and keeping people safe and secure.
We all want to make a success of the decision by the people of the UK to leave the EU and I want to get alongside people to hear what they think. On behalf of the UK Government I am determined we prepare together for the challenges ahead.
These visits are an opportunity to listen and learn about the diverse issues faced by people from every part of Northern Ireland. I will also be explaining that the UK Government is committed to working alongside them and the Executive. The UK is a great and strong country with a bright future and Northern Ireland will have a huge part to play.
As well as talking to firms of all sizes about keeping Northern Ireland open for business and a great place to visit, Mr Brokenshire will be hearing the perspectives of local community groups and meeting policing partners.
He will also prioritise meetings with groups representing victims and survivors of the Troubles about finding a way forward to address the legacy of Northern Ireland’s past.