Obama may scrap NI envoy role
PRESIDENTIAL hopeful Barack Obama has indicated he would consider the need for a US envoy for Northern Ireland, if he is elected to office.
The Democratic candidate has confirmed he would discuss the issue with the British and Irish governments and party leaders in Northern Ireland to decide if the role is still necessary.
A statement issued on behalf of the Illinois Senator, who is currently at his party's convention ahead of the November election, re-affirmed the country's support to the ongoing peace process.
It read: "Barack Obama understands that US attention and support will be required to solidify the peace.
"But he also recognises that the crisis period for Northern Ireland has passed and that the people of Northern Ireland are now in charge of their own destiny.
"He will consult with the Taoiseach, the British Prime Minister, and party leaders in Northern Ireland to determine whether a special US envoy for Northern Ireland continues to be necessary or whether a senior administration official, serving as point person for Northern Ireland, would be most effective.
"As president, Barack Obama will personally engage on Irish issues whenever necessary," it added.
The current US envoy in Northern Ireland is Paula Dobriansky.
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Sunday 12 February 2012
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