Munce calls for Step-Change in East-West Relations
UUP Foyle Assembly candidate, Peter Munce has called today for a ‘step change’ in East – West relations.
Peter said that a future Assembly must focus on how to maximise the benefits of being in the Union by actively pursuing and identifying areas of potential cooperation and collaboration between Northern Ireland and other regions of the UK and between these islands.
In a statement Peter said,
“In 1998, the Ulster Unionist Party attempted to build new relationships on and between these islands in the British Isles based upon partnership and respect. Putting greater emphasis on the east/west dimension is the logical extension of this work.
“People get caught up very easily in the debate over closer North/South cooperation and forget about the obvious benefits that could flow from greater economic, social and environmental cooperation between regions of the UK – particularly as Scotland, Wales and some regions in the North of England face the same socio – economic problems as Northern Ireland.
“The vast majority of Unionists support constructive, accountable North/South cooperation, in areas where it is mutually beneficial but we also believe that a more natural framework of cooperation should encompass the entire British Isles – hence the provision, back in 1998 of a framework for East – West cooperation in Strand 3 of the Belfast Agreement, which to date has been undervalued and must be given greater recognition.
“Proposals to strengthen the work of the British Irish Council (BIC) through the creation of a permanent secretariat to support its work are long overdue but are to be welcomed. We must increase the number and frequency of meetings of the British-Irish Council.
“Increased cooperation between these islands can have a lasting impact capable of building stronger communities in both areas with greater economic prosperity and more social cohesion.”