The death of Lyra McKee served to remind us all that the peace that we enjoy cannot be taken for granted. Northern Ireland has been in limbo and political drift since the institutions collapsed in 2017. The blame for the lack of progress over the past two years has to be shouldered by both the DUP and Sinn Féin. Lyra’s death served as a reminder that what unites us is so much greater than what divides us. I didn’t know Lyra personally, but it is clear that she was a truly special person who touched the lives of many and will continue to do so in death. Having read Lyra’s work over the past few weeks, it is evident that Lyra represented a new Northern Ireland. Having watched her TEDx Talk, it was evident that Lyra had given so much and still had much to give, cruelly her life was snatched away from her by cowards that skulk around in the darkness.

There was the sense of déjà vu last Tuesday as the media descended on Stormont once again last week. We have all been here before, but there is always a tangible amount of interest from the press pack when a new talks process is convened. However, something feels different this time round. Inspired by Lyra’s murder, the politicians know that the pressure is on to reach an agreement.

Time is of the essence if agreement is to be reached. With the lingering issue of Brexit, the elephant in the room, coupled with the European elections, political good will may be limited. Additionally, as we march towards the summer and marching season, it is generally a tense time across the province, therefore making the chance of agreement over these months unlikely. We are all very much aware of the issues that are outstanding, they have been paraded around the media for the past two and a half years. Something is going to have to give if we are going to get past this current impasse. The art of politics is compromise, especially in a politically volatile and quite frankly unusual place Northern Ireland struggles with compromise. There seems to be an inherent fear in Northern Ireland that giving ground to the “other side” is a bad thing and will in fact make our own position weaker.

Another interesting dynamic which could help deliver a positive outcome in these latest rounds of negotiations is the individuals that are involved. Karen Bradley’s performance as Secretary of State has been underwhelming to say the least. A series of gaffes and openly admitting a lack of knowledge about the political landscape here, has led to calls for her to be replaced. A successful conclusion to these negotiations could help relieve the pressure that has been building up. Ironically, one thing that has united the parties has been their displeasure with Karen Bradley. It’s not just our beleaguered secretary of state who needs a positive result from these negotiations, Arlene Foster is also under pressure. After seeing the spotlight shift towards Westminster and the 10 DUP MPs, her leadership has come into question. Stormonts return would surely go some way to securing her position as party leader.

My message to all involved in the talks, please do not let Lyra’s death be in vain. Help us to build a Northern Ireland that Lyra would be proud of.