The Council of the Nations and Regions has met for the first time since being established by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
It brings together the Prime Minister and leaders of Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, the leaders of the eleven English combined authorities, and the Mayor of London.
First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly attended the first meeting on Friday, October 11, in Edinburgh.
The meeting theme was ‘Economic Growth and Inward Investment’. The Executive Office said the first ministers “highlighted why Northern Ireland is an attractive investment opportunity and discussed how best to grow the economy here.”
“We had the opportunity to speak to political leaders from across all areas of government in England, Wales and Scotland. We discussed how we can work together to maximise opportunities to grow our economies.
– First Minister Michelle O’Neill
“Strengthening co-operation across these islands is important and by sharing challenges and priorities we can all learn from each other.
“We also met with the Prime Minister and raised a number of issues, including the need for the immediate reinstatement of the Mid South West deal and the Causeway Coast and Glens deal. We also underlined the need for proper investment in public services, infrastructure and our public sector workers.”
“Engagement is essential when it comes to developing closer working relationships and the meeting was an opportunity to discuss how we can all work together to deliver against shared objectives, particularly when it comes to investment.
– Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly
“As with other forums such as the East West Council, meetings like this ensure we can discuss our priorities and identify those opportunities where together, we can make a difference.
“It is vital Northern Ireland can access national and regional funding opportunities to help strengthen our economy and yesterday’s discussions are part of wider conversations about how we can work together to maximise our potential.”
The council is expected to meet twice a year.
