Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2019
10. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if an extension will be applied for and granted to the withdrawal of the UK from the European Union if it is not possible to negotiate or agree a Brexit deal at the EU Council meeting in October 2019 in view of the European Union (Withdrawal) (No. 2) Act 2019 (details supplied); and if the EU is planning for all scenarios. [40814/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder Article 50.3 of the Treaty on European Union, an extension of the article 50 process requires the unanimous decision of the European Council, in agreement with the Member State concerned.
We note the terms of the European Union (Withdrawal) (No. 2) Act 2019, which, inter alia, would require an extension to Article 50 until 31 January 2020 be sought, if the House of Commons has not approved a deal, or has not approved leaving the EU without a deal, by 19 October. At the same time, we note Prime Minister Johnson’s stated intention that the UK will leave the EU on 31 October. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on the application of UK legislation in this matter.
If a request is made by the UK to extend the date of its departure from the EU, Ireland, together with our European partners, will consider it carefully, taking into account the reasons for a possible extension and the duration. Bearing in mind these considerations, Ireland is open to such a request.
