Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 March 2021
441. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the outcome of the most recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and with members of the Northern Ireland Executive on the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13309/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am in regular contact with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the First Minister and deputy First Minister, and other political leaders on a range of issues, including in relation to the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.
On 3 March, I met with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Brandon Lewis, and with Lord Frost, who since 1 March is the Cabinet Minister responsible for EU-UK relations. At this meeting I expressed the Government’s grave concern and regret that the UK was planning to move in a unilateral way, rather than working in continued partnership with the EU in accordance with the EU-UK joint statements of 11 and 24 February.
I am well aware of the practical challenges, which some businesses and people in Northern Ireland have faced in relation to certain aspects of the Protocol’s implementation. I, and officials in my Department, continue to engage closely with counterparts and other stakeholders in Northern Ireland, including in the business and civil society communities. We are listening carefully to any concerns they have.
In this regard, Ireland has consistently advocated a pragmatic approach to implementation within the existing framework of the Protocol, including joint consideration of modest extensions to grace periods. This is, however, only possible in a spirit of cooperation and partnership and through the agreed mechanisms.
I have consistently said that we want the Protocol to work for Northern Ireland, and for the island as a whole, in as smooth a manner as possible. It is important that Northern Ireland is able to benefit from the considerable positive opportunities created by the Protocol.
The Irish Government’s focus remains on ensuring that the Protocol, as an international agreement concluded by the EU and UK, is fully implemented. It is the agreed and only solution to the problems created on the island of Ireland by Brexit.
We will continue to have regular contact with political leaders and engage with other stakeholders, including businesses and civic society in Northern Ireland in relation to the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.
