Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 February 2017
336. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Good Friday Agreement will be amended following Brexit; and the negotiations and discussions that are taking place in this regard. [5866/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s priority is to ensure that the Good Friday Agreement and the overall balance of the settlement is not in any way disturbed by the UK’s exit from the European Union.
The legal and political obligations of both the Irish and British Governments under the Good Friday Agreement remain unchanged, regardless of the status of the UK within the EU.
The Taoiseach and Prime Minister May have confirmed that the Agreement remains the basis for the two Governments’ approach to Northern Ireland.
I have met with all of my EU Foreign Minister counterparts to sensitise them to the Government’s concerns in regard to the disproportionate impact of Brexit on the island of Ireland. From that engagement, I believe there is a good understanding among my EU colleagues of the unique situation of Northern Ireland and of the importance of the European Union continuing its historic supporting role for the peace process there. As the date for the UK triggering Article 50 draws closer, I expect that engagement with our EU partners will further intensify.
As a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the Government is determined that all aspects of the Agreement – including its provisions relating to the constitutional status of Northern Ireland - are fully protected and reflected in the new relationship between the EU and the UK.
