Contacts between Irish and British officials have not always been like this, particularly in the past decade. The attendance of high-level officials shows how good relations have resumed after the turmoil of the Brexit years. Then there is the summit itself, with the necessary follow-ups afterwards, before preparations begin for the next meeting. There is doubt among some on the Irish side that it would thrive as well without Starmer. He is genuine about his interest in the British-Irish relationship, but his successors might not be,” said one Irish official.

Source: The Irish Times March 12, 2026 08:07 UTC