Politicians at Stormont have been accustomed over the years to English politicians lecturing them about the need for stability.
When not in actual suspension, the devolved institutions are usually within months of either beginning or concluding their periodic bouts of activity during prime ministerial visits and it is not surprising that exasperation has been expressed by successive British governments.
But as the fourth incumbent of Downing Street in just two years arrived for meetings with parties at Parliament Buildings yesterday, it was Sir Keir Starmer who was making promises to Northern Ireland about a new era of stability and different way of doing politics.
And while there were no immediate announcements on pressing funding issues such as Casement Park or the Stormont budget, it is clear the Labour leader’s straightforward style was a welcome change for local political leaders.
The first non-Tory prime minister in 14 years is clearly intent to set a new tone from the start of his premiership, in contrast with the chaos and duplicity of administrations in recent years.
The first non-Tory prime minister in 14 years is clearly intent to set a new tone from the start of his premiership, in contrast with the chaos and duplicity of administrations in recent years
Particularly encouraging was a commitment to improve relations with the Irish government, with Sir Keir saying he has already had discussions with Taoiseach Simon Harris about the need for a ‘reset’.
Much of the rancour related to the tortuous process of agreeing post-Brexit trading arrangements, with hope now that friction at political and commercial levels will ease with a move towards a softer Brexit and away from the kamikaze policies pursued by competing right-wing factions of the Conservative party.
Another bone of contention, a challenge to the Legacy Act taken by Dublin in the European Court of Human Rights, could also be resolved if the new prime minister follows through on pledges to repeal the reviled legislation that is widely opposed by politicians and victims alike.
On a border poll, Mr Starmer played a straight bat yesterday, saying he was committed to the principles of the Good Friday Agreement and the role of the UK Government is as an “honest broker”.
This appeared to mark a shift from previous comments indicating he would campaign for Northern Ireland to remain part of the union, and it is certain that he will come under increasing pressure to spell out criteria for holding a referendum.
All in all, it was a positive visit by the latest leader of the UK government, who spoke repeatedly of his desire to move forward in a “respectful, collaborative way”.
As we know from our own politics, there is a lot to be said for basic standards of respect when seeking to build trust and relationships. It can only be hoped that the positive atmosphere on show yesterday can be maintained when difficult decisions confront both Stormont and Sir Keir Starmer in the months ahead.
