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Brexit biggest opportunity in decades:Northern Ireland first minister

Xinhua, October 30, 2016 Adjust font size:

Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster told the annual conference of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) Saturday that Brexit represents the biggest opportunity in decades.

Making her first keynote speech as leader of the DUP, Foster told delegates: "I respect those who believed that the United Kingdom's best interests were served by remaining within the European Union, but I have no time for those who want to refight the referendum. That debate is over."

"Rather than talking up the challenges, we should be looking towards the opportunities. Brexit represents the biggest economic opportunity for this country in decades," Foster told the conference in Belfast.

She said the DUP had stood shoulder to shoulder with those who wanted the British people to take back control of their futures.

"I know that there were many good people on both sides of this debate. But the only way that we can ensure that Northern Ireland's interests are best served is if we are united and determined."

"What will guide me through these negotiations, and yes, they will be tough, are five simple principles."

"Firstly, Brexit means Brexit. The whole of the United Kingdom leaves the EU. Secondly, the economic and social benefits for Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom are far more important than our relationship with the EU."

"Thirdly, any deal must recognize the reality of our geography and of our history. Fourthly, we will work with whoever we need to, to get the best deal for Northern Ireland at home and abroad. And fifthly, whatever the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, it will not divert me from delivering on my plan to build a better Northern Ireland."

"We must not allow the Brexit negotiations to divert and distract from the normal business of government, nor should it be used as a basis to reopen settled political agreements," said the official.

"Those will by my guiding principles in the two years to come and I believe they will help lead us to a better future," she added. Endit