Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald said today that the restoration of the Assembly on a sustainable basis is possible if leaders demonstrate the political will.

Mary Lou McDonald TD said:

“Sinn Féin enters these negotiations in a spirit of optimism and determination to restore the political institutions on the basis of equality and respect.

“These talks are primarily a test of political will and of political leadership.

“For almost three years, we have worked to achieve an agreement to deliver solutions for people, solutions that ensure every citizen is treated with dignity, with parity of esteem and with respect.

“These objectives are in everyone’s interest.

“We understand the frustrations of people at the failure of previous efforts to restore the Assembly, particularly when so much progress towards a deal was made in February 2018.

“If political leaders demonstrate the political will to restore Stormont on a sustainable and credible basis that guarantees rights, equality and respect for all, then I believe we can have a successful resolution.

“We need an inclusive Executive that brings together parties who are truly committed to delivering good government.

“And after a decade of austerity and underinvestment that has stifled economic growth, public services and communities in the north we need adequate financial commitments from the British government.

“All of this is achievable – it’s time for party leaders and both governments to show their political will to deliver on good government for all.”