Irish Government Statements on the outcome of the Scottish Referendum

Statement from the Taoiseach Enda Kenny T.D. on the outcome of the Scottish Referendum

The people of Scotland have spoken: We respect their democratic decision that Scotland should remain as part of the United Kingdom.

We are committed to deepening and strengthening the already close relationships across these islands.

Attention will now turn to the changes likely to take place following the referendum, particularly in terms of devolution of powers. This process will be closely followed in Ireland.

As neighbours, friends and partners across political, economic, cultural, and many other spheres, relations between Ireland and Britain have never been stronger. We look forward to working with all parties across these islands in the years ahead.

The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 is the historic template for harmonious and mutually beneficial development of the totality of relationships among the peoples of these islands. In particular, it has led to a transformation in relationships between the two great traditions on this island.

Our commitment to that Agreement, and to partnership, equality and mutual respect, today stands more firm than ever.

Statement from the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charles Flanagan T.D. on the outcome of the Scottish Referendum

The people of Scotland have voted to remain part of the United Kingdom. The debate leading up to yesterday’s referendum was rich and passionate, and it was clear that those making the case on both sides shared a common concern for the best interests of the Scottish people. I share the hope that all parts of Scottish society can now come together in a constructive and inclusive way in shaping Scotland’s future within the UK.

The strong bonds and historic links between us all run deep and are well-known. As a neighbour, friend and partner across political, economic, cultural and many other spheres, Ireland enjoys excellent and ever-improving relations with Britain and with Scotland.

We will be in close contact with London, Edinburgh, and other administrations as discussions proceed on enhanced devolution for Scotland and on the political changes across the UK as outlined by Prime Minister Cameron in his statement this morning.

The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 set as a key objective the promotion of harmonious and mutually beneficial development of the totality of relationships among the peoples of these islands. The commitment in that Agreement to partnership, equality, and mutual respect as the basis of relationships within Northern Ireland, between North and South, and between these islands is as important today as it was sixteen years ago.

I look forward to continuing to work with London and with administrations across these islands, including within the structures created under the Good Friday Agreement and, of course, within the European Union.