merrion street

I am sorry to learn that Martin McGuinness has decided not to contest the forthcoming election due to his poor health.

While Martin and I may not always have seen eye-to-eye on every issue, I readily acknowledge the remarkable political journey that he has undertaken.

I know that Martin remains firmly committed to delivering a peaceful and prosperous society for all of the people of Northern Ireland.

He was one of the key architects of the Good Friday Agreement, and a tireless and committed champion of the Peace Process.

I have appreciated working closely with Martin in recent years, including in particular in the work of the North South Ministerial Council.

I wish Martin and his family well for the future and I hope that his health will now be his absolute priority in the time ahead.