Joint Communiqué of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIC), Hillsborough, 15 December 2004

Joint Communiqué of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIC),
Hillsborough, Northern Ireland, 15 December 2004

A meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference was held at Hillsborough on 15 December 2004.

The British Government was represented by the Joint Chair, the Rt. Hon. Paul Murphy MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, who was accompanied by the Rt. Hon. John Spellar MP, Minister of State at the Northern Ireland Office. The Irish Government was represented by the Joint Chair, Dermot Ahern TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Review of Political Developments

The Conference reviewed political developments, including last week's publication of comprehensive proposals by both Governments. The Conference affirmed its view that the proposals covered the key issues that must be resolved, and could bring closure to all outstanding issues. The Governments stated that they were satisfied that the comprehensive package tabled by them would, if accepted by the parties, fully realise the vision of a new beginning promised by the Belfast Agreement. The Governments remain fully committed to this vision, to the early restoration of devolved government on an inclusive basis in Northern Ireland and the full operation of all of the political institutions of the Belfast Agreement.

Agenda for the BIIGC, January 2005

The Conference agreed to meet again in January 2005 to review political progress, and to consider equality and human rights issues, security and criminal justice matters, North/South and East/West matters, the implementation of the Cory recommendations, electoral issues and any other matters arising.