British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference Convenes at Hillsborough Castle

The British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) is set to convene at Hillsborough Castle today (Thursday, 24th April), marking the first occasion the Conference has been hosted in Northern Ireland since 2006.

Formed under the Good Friday Agreement, the BIIGC serves as a bilateral forum that meets on a regular basis, with the objective “to unite the British and Irish Governments in promoting collaboration at all levels on issues of mutual concern that fall within the purview of both Governments.”

Today’s session will be overseen by Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn along with Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Minister for Defence Simon Harris. The meeting will also include the attendance of Fleur Anderson MP, the Parliamentary under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan TD.

This gathering follows the UK-Ireland summit held in March, where both governments committed to collaborating closely to enhance security, investment, and economic growth.

This renewed commitment to cooperation with Ireland is a critical element of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, aiming to increase financial support for working individuals across the country while fostering greater national security and renewal.

During today’s BIIGC meeting, the two Governments are anticipated to address ongoing efforts to progress initiatives related to historical legacy issues in Northern Ireland. They will also tackle matters concerning political stability, security, and other aspects of bilateral collaboration.

Secretary of State Hilary Benn stated:

This meeting is vital in strengthening the robust and close relationship between the UK and the Irish Governments as we persist in collaborating on various issues.

Tánaiste Simon Harris remarked:

I am eager to engage in this significant meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference and to continue our intensive discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on the challenging yet essential task of addressing historical legacy issues.