IRELAND’S Minister for the EU Thomas Byrne has congratulated his British counterpart Hamish Falconer on being appointed to his new role.
Minister Falconer, who was elected MP for Lincoln in 2024, had been a parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office since that year.
He was appointed Minister for Intergovernmental Relations and European Relations in July, in Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s new cabinet.
Minister Hamish Falconer (Pic: Gov.uk)On August 11, Ministers Byrne and Falconer had their first formal call since Mr Falconer’s appointment, during which they discussed the importance of ensuring “the strongest possible EU-UK relationship”.
“I was very glad to speak with Minister Falconer and congratulate him on his new role in the UK cabinet,” Minister Byrne said.
“We discussed our joint commitment to positively advancing the EU-UK relationship,” he explained.
“This is in our shared interests when it comes to delivering for business, young people and our security.”
He added: “Ireland is ambitious in supporting the strongest possible EU-UK relationship, so that the benefits can be felt by citizens across these islands, and across the EU. A successful and balanced second EU-UK Summit is key to supporting this partnership.”
Ireland's Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas ByrneThe pair also discussed their part in supporting Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia.
“I also welcome the agreement on the UK’s participation in the Ukraine Support Loan,” Minister Byrne said.
“The UK is a vital likeminded partner in these challenging geopolitical contexts,” he added.
“Exploring further areas of cooperation in the area of security and defence is critical to protecting the European continent.
“I welcome the positive engagement between the new UK Government and their EU counterparts.
“I look forward to meeting with Minister Falconer in person soon and to working with him and the new UK Government on strengthening the EU-UK partnership.”
Minister Falconer described his discussion with Minister Byrne as a “great first call".
“Ireland leads the EU Council presidency and the UK remains committed to delivering on shared priorities: economic growth, security, and defence readiness,” he added.
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