Ireland faces unique challenges due to Brexit, says Government
THE IRISH Government has warned the EU, a week before a key emergency meeting on Brexit, that the UK’s decision to leave the bloc is already damaging the Irish economy and that the UK Government is to blame for a “lack of engagement.”
In a report to the EU, the Department of the Taoiseach said that some sections of the Irish economy were “already feeling the impact of Brexit” and that the UK’s decision “presents uniquely significant and unprecedented political, economic and diplomatic challenges for Ireland.”
The Government said it may also seek targeted EU aid to cope with the economic chaos resulting from the Brexit vote.
Table showing the relationship of trade between the UK and ROI
Charlie Flanagan, Minister for foreign affairs also criticised the lack of engagement by the UK Government in the ongoing political deadlock in Northern Ireland.
He said: “The next 10 days are absolutely crucial. I understand there are still deep divisions between both sides.
“Without a functioning executive it is difficult to have a common position on specific Irish concerns, such as the Border and the Common Travel Area.”
The Irish economy is Europe’s most exposed to trade with the United Kingdom, with over 15 percent of Irish exports heading to its neighbor and over 30 percent of imports coming in across the Irish Sea.
The negotiations, involving Northern Ireland’s main political parties, were adjourned last Wednesday and will resume after Easter with the aim of forming a new executive by early May, after earlier deadlines were missed.
Secretary of State James Brokenshire has warned that either direct rule will be imposed by London, or another election will be called if the parties fail to reach a deal.
Mr Flanagan praised the efforts of the Secretary of State but added there had not been “sufficient engagement” from the British Government to the ongoing stalemate in the North.
Picture courtesy of Candian Pacific
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