Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 February 2021
98. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the arrangements in place with the European Commission to ensure no recurrence of the recent unilateral proposal by the Commission to invoke Article 16 of the Northern Ireland Protocol; if he has such a commitment from the President of the Commission in view of the importance of this issue for all in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6312/21]
View answerThe Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland plays a vital role in protecting the Good Friday Agreement and the gains of the peace process. It ensures that there is no hard border on the island of Ireland, and it protects the integrity of the Single Market and Ireland’s place in it.
It allows Northern Irish traders continued access not only to the British market but also to the Single Market of 450 million consumers - this access is unique, and underpins all-island supply chains.
The Protocol was the subject of lengthy and detailed negotiations. It represents an agreed, balanced compromise. It was designed with full awareness and sensitivity to Northern Ireland’s unique circumstances, and with an active desire to find arrangements that work for people and businesses on the ground.
Article 16 of the Protocol reflects provisions on safeguards in other trade agreements. The Protocol sets out how it should be utilised, with due regard to notification, consultation, and engagement. Short-circuiting these processes risks undermining trust and goodwill.
It is regrettable that the Protocol became embroiled in the dispute over vaccine procurement and that full information was not provided to Ireland in a timely way. It should not have happened. Thankfully, a speedy resolution was possible. The immediate action by the Commission in responding to our concerns is appreciated. We are engaged with the Commission to ensure that in the future there is timely and appropriate consultation in advance of any decision being taken that could have implications for the Protocol.
Mechanisms for effective and positive engagement are contained within the Protocol, as has already been demonstrated through the joint efforts of the EU and UK in finding an agreed approach to implementation in December 2020. We must all redouble our efforts to support effective implementation of the Protocol, to the benefit of all people on this island.
