The Irish government has said it will open a new consular office in Manchester in a bid for the country to forge a "strong link" with the North of England as the Brexit transition period comes to an end.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney announced on Monday plans for a new consulate general to open next year "as part of Ireland's strong commitment to the British-Irish relationship".
The announcement said the new office will cover the North West, the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber.
It comes as talks between the UK and EU are due to resume on Monday in Brussels, with the two sides looking to agree a deal before the Brexit transition period ends on December 31.
Mr Coveney said: "Moving ahead with plans for a new consulate in the North of England is a really strong signal of Ireland's commitment to the Irish-British relationship.
"When opened, this new Consulate General at the heart of the North of England will upgrade our capacity to advance our commercial interests and our cultural and people-to-people links.
"I am especially delighted to be making this announcement today as the Tanaiste and I prepare to welcome a virtual visit from Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester and Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region."
According to the Irish Times, the Irish Government notified the British foreign office of its plans last week, with the office set to open in the first half of next year.
The country already has consulates general in Cardiff and Edinburgh.
