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Brexit Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 July 2020

Tuesday, 28 July 2020

Ceisteanna (48)

Jim O'Callaghan

Ceist:

48. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his assessment of the paper published by the United Kingdom Government on 20 May 2020 entitled the UK’s Approach to the Northern Ireland Protocol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18494/20]

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Freagraí scríofa

On 20 May, the UK Government published a Command Paper setting out its approach to implementing the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland. The European Commission has already set out clearly and in detail the requirements for implementation of the Protocol, in its Technical Note published on 30 April.

The UK Command Paper is an outline of the approach the UK Government is taking in respect of Protocol implementation.

There are positive elements in the paper including, for example, a clear recognition of the need for checks on agri-foods entering Northern Ireland, and for expanded infrastructure at associated Border Control Posts.  However, on other important issues, such as the approach on customs and tariffs, on regulatory aspects and VAT, the paper’s contents are more vague. 

The UK paper does not go as far as it could have in providing clear, full responses and operational detail in all areas – but I welcome it as a start.  I also welcome the accelerated technical engagement underway between the EU and the UK since then on operationalising the Protocol by the end of transition.

The second meeting of the Joint Committee on implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement took place on 12 June and the second meeting of the Specialised Committee on the Implementation of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland on 16 July. We look forward to further accelerated progress on implementation and to continued intensive technical engagement between the UK and the EU on the key issues.

In my recent engagements with the UK Government I have underlined the urgent need for clarity and detail to allow all stakeholders in Northern Ireland, and particularly business, the time they need to prepare for the changes which Brexit inevitably brings.

Question No. 49 answered with Question No. 41.
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