Foyle MP Colum Eastwood congratulates Simon Harris becoming Taoiseach
Mr Eastwood said that he looked forward to working with the Taoiseach to strengthen north-south co-operation, build on the work of the Shared Island Unit and explore new ways to enhance services for people across Ireland
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has sent his congratulations to Simon Harris following his nomination as Taoiseach today.
Mr Harris is set to become the youngest Taoiseach in history following a vote in the Dáil today. His appointment follows Leo Varadkar's official resignation on Monday.
Mr Eastwood said that he looked forward to working with the Taoiseach to strengthen north-south co-operation, build on the work of the Shared Island Unit and explore new ways to enhance services for people across Ireland.
The Foyle MP said: “I want to offer my warm congratulations to Simon Harris as he takes up the office of Taoiseach. It is a huge honour and challenge to lead our country and we are all invested in his success.
“Over the last number of years I’ve had the opportunity to work with the new Taoiseach on a number of projects, including securing €45 million of additional investment through the Shared Island Fund to support the expansion of university provision in Derry.
"I know that he has an abiding interest in the North and has worked in previous cabinet roles to provide support, investment and enhanced services on a North South basis.
“I look forward to working with the Taoiseach to strengthen North South cooperation, which has suffered as a result of the suspension of devolution in the North, to build on the work of the Shared Island Unit and to continue the important work of bringing the people and traditions that share our island together.”