Sligo-Leitrim TD steps into cross-border role amid “challenging” environment

Sligo-Leitrim TD Frank Feighan has been appointed Fine Gael Spokesperson on Northern Ireland and UK relations by Tánaiste Simon Harris.

A native of Boyle, Deputy Feighan was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 2007, lost his seat in 2016, and was re-elected in the Sligo-Leitrim constituency in 2020 and again in 2024.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin noted that Deputy Feighan is taking on the role during a “challenging geopolitical environment.”

“With regards to Northern Ireland, we make the greatest progress when our two Governments work together, particularly to support peace, prosperity and reconciliation on this island,” Mr Martin said.

He highlighted that at the recent Ireland-UK summit, both Governments made commitments to collaborate on conflict prevention, peacebuilding, sustainable development and climate action.

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“Deputy Feighan has demonstrated his experience in building and maintaining important and enduring relationships and I wish him success in his new role,” Mr Martin added.

Commenting on his appointment, Deputy Feighan expressed optimism about the task ahead.

“I’m delighted to have been asked to take on this responsibility by the Tánaiste,” he said.

“In working through the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement and in developing relationships with my UK counterparts, I look forward to a particularly fruitful period of partnership and cooperation in the service of people across these islands,” Deputy Feighan concluded.

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