Joe O'Reilly (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate that because this is of huge interest to me as a member of this committee, with its national brief, and as a Deputy for a Border constituency. I agree with the latter point made by Senator Hayden - in other words, I agree with Professor Todd that we should be preparing for all eventualities in a diplomatic and effective manner. I would be concerned that all the cross-Border co-operation under the Good Friday Agreement would be at risk. Quality of life, day-to-day operational concerns, Border controls, customs and passport checks would be of concern to my area. Interaction between North and South would be a significant issue for people in my area were Britain to withdraw.

The work of the Special European Union Projects Body, the SEUPB, which Professor Todd referenced in her paper, is very important. I was happily involved with Castle Saunderson, the all-Ireland scouting facility, right the way through. It is a wonderful facility. We now have the development and the extension of the Ulster Canal. That is all through the SEUPB and it is very important to the area.

Were Britain to withdraw from the EU, it would affect social life, economic life and quality of life and it would have huge implications for the entire Border region and the rest of the country. I appreciate the opportunity to speak now because I have to speak in the Dáil after the vote on the health Bill. I would like Professor Todd to respond to my concerns about life along the Border as my constituents would like to hear her response.