The delegation, who are members of the bipartisan Friends of Ireland Group, are being led by the group’s chairman Richie Neal, and are on a ten day fact finding tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Speaking at the lunch Mr McGuinness said: “We have enjoyed unprecedented access on Capitol Hill in recent years and it is vital, that in the changing political environment, that we adopt a new approach to strengthen and co-ordinate political cooperation and engagement with the US. Today’s working lunch has allowed us explore how we can best develop our relationships with some of the America’s most influential politicians, particularly in relation to issues such as ongoing inward investment and the plight of the undocumented Irish. ”
Mr Newton said: “This is a very influential group of politicians from Capitol Hill who have been very supportive of Northern Ireland and the work of the Bureau in Washington. This lunch presents the opportunity to formally welcome the delegation to Northern Ireland and to acknowledge the Executives appreciation of the role and contribution made by the US administration and Congress to the political and economic developments here.”
Notes to Editors:
1. The members of the delegation are part of the “Friends of Ireland” which is a bi-partisan group in the House of Representatives that monitors events on the island of Ireland and engages representatives on political, social and economic matters. The Chairman of the group is Congressman Neal and the vice-chairman is Congressman Tim Murphy and it has more than 180 members of congress from both sides of the aisle.
2. Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
