Minister For Foreign Affairs 'Comprehensive Statement' On 'Brexit'

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan, has given a "comprehensive statement" to the Dáil outling his priorities and approach in light of the upcoming UK referendum on EU membership.

On Northern Ireland and the border, the Minister said: "The border between north and south is an open border between two EU member states with all that has to offer. Today, this practically invisible border is a major symbol of normalisation and development in north-south relations.

"Any implications for the current border arrangements would only arise if the UK voted to leave and, in that event, their future would depend heavily on the terms and conditions of a new relationship between the UK and the EU.

"In other words, the border's destiny would not be determined by the sole wishes of the Irish and British governments. The outcome would be the result of a wider negotiation involving all of the EU and therefore no-one can say with certainty that nothing will change with the border if the UK votes to leave."

He added: "The fact that Ireland and the UK have both been members of the EU for 43 years has provided a shared, valuable and reassuring context for the people of Northern Ireland, whether they consider themselves Irish or British – or both. There is also the valuable EU funding and the fact that the island as a whole is currently within the EU single market."

On the European Union's strategic value, the Minister spoke of its historic achievements and its wider goals for the future: "As Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, I am acutely aware of the conflicts and violence in many parts of the world, including near to the borders of the EU itself.

"However, in a year when we will commemorate the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme where so many Irish soldiers lost their lives, it is also important to reflect on the origins of the EU and on the peace, stability and prosperity that this has delivered for our continent. As has been said many times before, the EU itself is, at heart, a peace process. And it is one that must succeed.

"The UK and Ireland joined the EU at the same time and over the 43 years since our accession, it has been clear that for historical and cultural reasons, we share many common perspectives on policy matters. The UK is an important voice at the table in Brussels. We want that voice to continue being heard".

(MH)