Church Leaders Urge Parties To Restore Power Sharing In NI

Church leaders in Ireland have written to the leaders of the five main political parties urging them to reach an agreement to restore power sharing in Northern Ireland.

The letter, which has also been copied to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, highlights the fact that without an agreed budget, or Executive ministers in place to make crucial decisions both the most vulnerable people, and the small voluntary and community groups that serve them are at risk.

It was sent by the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh, President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Armagh, President of the Irish Council of Churches and the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

The letter also makes the point that "little co–ordinated local input into the Brexit discussions" has taken place "and even less detailed preparation for what lies ahead for Northern Ireland and the island as a whole" can happen without a functioning Executive in place.

Recognising their responsibility to pray for all those in political authority, the Church Leaders pointed out the responsibility of the political parties towards the people of Northern Ireland, writing that their prayer and hope is that the politicians "will take the action necessary to end the uncertainty that is weighing heavily on our society".

They wrote: "This week we strongly encourage all the political leaders involved in the talks to go the extra mile to reach an accommodation, which establishes a sustainable administration that will work for the common good of all in our society."

(CD/MH)