UK Chancellor’s Brexit comments could be a worrying development – McEntee

Javid highlights that it really is only halftime

The UK’s Chancellor, Sajid Javid, comments about the UK leaving the EU with no alignment to the Union’s rules could be a worrying development said Minister for Europe Affairs Helen McEntee

The Minister said this highlighted the need for a strong Irish team with the experience, knowledge and relationships to negotiate a good deal for all involved.

“I want to see the closest possible relationship between Ireland and the EU and the UK. A good deal can be negotiated but we need Ireland’s top team in charge of it.

“Over the last three years, the Taoiseach, the Tanaiste and I delivered on our objectives in the first phase of the Brexit negotiations.

1. Protect the Good Friday Agreement in all of its parts
2. Ensure no return to a hard border on the island of Ireland
3. Maintain the Common Travel Area

“However, the UK Chacellor’s comments show that this really is only halftime.

“We are now entering phase two of the process. This is the most important and complex part of the negotiations.  We need to have our strongest team on the pitch, people with connections and who know the key people in negotiations. Fine Gael is part of the largest political grouping in Europe the European People’s Party (EPP). The EPP will play a vital role in the next phase of the negotiations, from Michel Barnier to Phil Hogan and Ursula Von Der Leyen.

“They are the central figures for the next phase of the Brexit negotiations that will impact on trade, tariffs, and the EU’s wider relationship with the UK. Fine Gael’s Brexit team is the best placed to deliver the best deal for Ireland in the future relationship.  We delivered in phase one and we’re ready to deliver in phase two.”

ENDS

Note to editors