Ruairí Ó Murchú
Question:9. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Taoiseach if he will report on any recent or future planned engagements with the British Prime Minister regarding the Northern Ireland Protocol. [40946/21]
View answerTuesday, 27 July 2021
Questions (9)
Written answers
I spoke by telephone with Prime Minister Johnson on 21st July.
We discussed the Northern Ireland Protocol and I indicated that the UK Government’s statements on the Protocol, to be made at Westminster the following day, would be carefully considered. I also stressed the importance of utilising the EU-UK framework for issues related to the Protocol.
The EU has consistently said it is ready to find flexible, practical approaches to address the difficulties citizens in Northern Ireland are experiencing as regards the implementation of the Protocol. However, any solutions must take place within the framework of the Protocol and the principles that underpin it.
We exchanged views on the current Covid-19 situation, especially in regard to the Delta variant.
I also raised legacy issues, including serious concerns at the British Government’s proposals and the impact it is having on victims and families. I emphasised that there can be no pre-determined outcome to the consultation process currently underway.
We agreed to stay in touch and looked forward to an opportunity to meet in person in the future.
I previously met with Prime Minister Johnson at Chequers on Friday 14th May, when we discussed a range of issues, including on implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.
Question No. 10 answered with Question No. 1.