The lecture was delivered by Taoiseach Simon Harris TD, who paid tribute to the peacebuilding efforts of John Hume and Tip O’Neill while reaffirming the Irish Government's commitment to deepening peace on the island.
In his address, Taoiseach Harris stated:
"We are also witnessing a new era in British-Irish relations. My recent meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer have set in motion a much-needed reset of relations between our two Governments. I have always believed – and this remains unshakable – that the peace process thrives when the British and Irish Governments act in full partnership as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement. Unilateralism failed in the past... Today, we are restoring a genuine sense of partnership, ensuring we address the critical issues that underpin lasting peace, progress, and reconciliation."
The lecture highlighted the importance of collaboration in fostering peace and rebuilding trust across political traditions on the island.
