Fianna Fáil TD and Chair of the British Irish Parliamentary Assembly, Brendan Smith has stated that it is “absolutely essential” that the all-island economy is protected post-Brexit. 

Speaking in the Dáil, ahead of a meeting of the European Commission this week, in which it is expected there will be discussions with US President Joe Biden on EU-US relationships, Deputy Smith commented, “It is absolutely essential the protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland is implemented in a practical manner and there is partnership with Britain to ensure the difficulties that exist are ironed out in a practical manner.”  

The Cavan Monaghan TD added: “Trade disruption in Northern Ireland means trade disruption throughout all of the island. We need to protect the all-Ireland economy. It is essential the Northern Ireland protocol is dealt with in a practical way and those problems are eliminated.” 

ENDS