Martin Kenny
Ceist:122. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the estimated cost of policing a hard Border after Brexit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5605/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 7 February 2017
Ceisteanna (122)
Freagraí scríofa
Both the Irish and British Governments have made it clear that it is their wish to maintain the Common Travel Area arrangements after the UK leaves the European Union. Both Governments have also expressed their commitment to ensuring there is no return to a so-called 'hard border' between both parts of the Island. This position was further reinforced at the recent summit between An Taoiseach and Prime Minister May and in the recent White Paper published by the UK Government. Indeed, only yesterday I had separate follow up meetings with the Home Secretary and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when we reaffirmed our commitment to maintaining the Common Travel Area. The importance of maintaining the Common Travel Area has also been highlighted through extensive engagement at political and diplomatic level with other EU Member States and with the Commission Negotiation Team.
The Deputy will appreciate, given that negotiations on the UK's exit from the EU have not yet begun, that it would be premature to consider what costs, if any, might arise in relation to this matter and indeed somewhat discordant given the stated position of both Governments to avoid such an outcome.
Naturally, while we will continue to maintain and enhance cooperation with the UK in relation to general immigration and border enforcement, Ireland of course remains a committed member of the European Union and will continue to uphold the right of free movement for all EU citizens after the UK leaves the Union.