• The relationship between the UK and Ireland has been “strained and challenged” in recent times.
• Ireland’s Foreign Affairs Minister has offered his best wishes to Boris Johnson following his resignation.
• Mr Martin has called for a return to the true spirit of partnership and mutual respect needed for peace.

“While Prime Minister Johnson and I participated extensively together, we didn’t always agree; and the relationship between our administrations has been strained; and stretched in recent times,” Mr. Martin said in a statement issued Thursday afternoon. He said, “We now have the chance to return to the real spirit of collaboration; and mutual respect that is essential to support the benefits of the Good Friday Agreement”; alluding to a 1998 Northern Ireland peace agreement.

“Prime Minister Johnson has led the British Government during a particularly difficult era; including dealing with the consequences of COVID-19 and the reaction to the situation in Ukraine,” continued Mr. Martin.

“From a personal standpoint, I am aware that he has experienced a trying few weeks; and after learning of his resignation, I send my best wishes to him and his family for the future.

“Britain is Ireland’s nearest neighbour, and our two nations have had a long, deep; and enduring relationship.

“The foundation for peace and prosperity on these islands; is our two administrations working closely together.”

While he and Mr. Johnson had “worked aggressively together,” Mr. Martin recognised; that their inability to establish common ground had impacted UK-Ireland ties.

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He clarified: “We must collaborate in an atmosphere of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration; if we are to fulfil our shared duties related to the Good Friday Agreement’s stewardship; and foster more extensive bilateral connections between us.

“That is more crucial now than ever, and I would once again encourage a reversal of unilateral action; whether it be on dealing with the consequences of the past, human rights; or the Northern Ireland Protocol.”

The Irish government “stands ready,” according to Simon Coveney, minister of foreign affairs of Ireland; to cooperate with a new British prime minister.

Tweeted Mr. Coveney: “The Irish government is prepared to collaborate with a future UK PM to defend our common successes; in the peace process and our shared legal obligation to handle Brexit.

“First, let’s establish a government in Stormont. I want the best for Boris Johnson and his family.”

Mary Lou McDonald, the head of Sinn Fein, was less kind, labelling Mr. Johnson’s relations with Ireland; as “wholly negative,” adding that he will “not be missed.”

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