Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 April 2019
231. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there are ongoing discussions with the authorities in Northern Ireland on the need to protect the agrifood sector and deal with issues that may arise from Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18328/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe best way to protect the agrifood sector is for the UK to ratify the Withdrawal Agreement. I welcome the decision of the European Council last week which prevented a no-deal outcome on 12 April and provides the UK with more time to ensure an orderly withdrawal and fully protect the Good Friday Agreement.
Indeed, among the priorities set by the Irish Government at the outset in relation to the Brexit negotiations was the protection of the Good Friday Agreement.
As part of the operation of that Agreement, and as is the case with all Departments, officials of my Department engage on a regular and ongoing basis with counterparts in Northern Ireland on matters relating to North South Co-operation.
