The British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly held its 68th plenary session this week.
Cavan-Monaghan TD Brendan Smith is the Irish Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Assembly.
According to Deputy Smith, discussions during this week's plenary focussed on key themes including Ireland-UK relations in a European context, Northern Ireland, cross-border cooperation, food security and sustainability, and international issues.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Smith described the plenary which was held in Co Kerry as "productive" and "engaging."
He told Northern Sound: "The Assembly plays a vital role in deepening understanding and cooperation between parliamentarians across these islands, particularly at a time when close engagement is more important than ever against a backdrop of global instability.
"There is renewed momentum in Ireland–UK relations following the recent Summit in Cork and the shared ambition set out by both Governments to deepen cooperation out to 2030.
"We examined key issues of mutual concern including Ireland-UK relations in a European context, developments in Northern Ireland, cross border cooperation, food security and sustainability, and wider international challenges. We also discussed the role of universities in promoting regional economic development and collaboration in research."
