New Irish minister off to a good start: Ford

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 1st Oct 2004

Following the first comments on Northern Ireland this morning by Dermot Ahern TD, the new Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alliance Leader David Ford said:

"Mr Ahern has only just taken up the responsibilities of foreign affairs, yet it is clear that he understands the situation regarding the future of the Agreement, and that is a good start.

"Like the Secretary of State, Mr Ahern is clear that the principles of the Agreement must stand, but reforms to the structures are required. Alliance has been making this point for the last year. We have made it strongly to both governments on a number of occasions.

"It is now clear that the two governments are working together on the basis that reform is the only realistic option. It is now up to them to put proposals on paper so that everyone is aware of what is on offer.

"Alliance will continue to press the governments to ensure that any changes reduce sectarianism in the Agreement and help to build a united community."