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THE US HOUSE of Representatives is set to vote on a resolution that would reaffirm support for the Good Friday Agreement (GFA) later today.
This resolution has been sponsored by Democratic Congressman Tom Suozzi from the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-sponsored by Republican Congressman Peter King.
It states that the US Congress “greatly values” the relationship shared between the US, the UK and the Republic of Ireland.
Votes are due to take place in the House of Representatives at 6.30pm today (11.30pm Irish time).
The resolution says Brexit does not appropriately protect the GFA and threatens to undermine the process that has been made in moving “beyond the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland”.
The US vote would reaffirm support for the GFA and other agreements to ensure lasting peace in Northern Ireland.
The resolution urges the UK and the EU to ensure any exit from the union will support continued peace on the island of Ireland and the principles, objectives and commitments of the GFA.
It says Congress expresses support for the “full implementation” of the GFA and subsequent agreements. It also expresses opposition to the reintroduction of a hard border between Ireland north and south.
Last month, former US Vice President Joe Biden voiced his support for protecting the GFA and avoiding a return to a hard border after Brexit, RTÉ reported.
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I’d say the steam is coming out of Arlenes head lol
@Martin Harte: I was just thinking as much. Not only will Arlene and DUP not want to hear this from the US Congress, but the timing of it in the middle of an election to Westminster must also make it very uncomfortable for her. there’s a good chance the DUP will be heading back to their mother parliament with at least two seats light.
@Martin Harte: Maybe Arlene will now stay away from the US next St Patricks Day celebrations
The Americans are great friends of Ireland we always get along with them.My dad always said Ireland can not go far wrong because America is always looking out for us..God Bless America.
@Marty Mc.Sligo: I like to think there is still some Irish influence left in America.
I’d already written to my Congresswoman and 2 state senators urging that congress wouldn’t pass a trade deal post-Brexit with the UK unless the GFA was respected.
A tick the box show of support
@Donnacha Bhoicaire: important for Brexit and a clear signal to Boris
have your say