Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I, too, recognise the work of all the organisations represented. What is the long-term vision for the new common charter, if there is one, and what are the next steps in its development? I agree with my colleagues that it is very important the grassroots would be involved. This is particularly the case in regard to the impact on rural communities, whether in the Border region or elsewhere. We can foresee the impact Brexit will have there. We do not want to go back to that vision of the past, which is what Brexit represents to me. Any policies or collaboration of community groups and grassroots organisations must be listened to. State organisations, whether north or south of the Border, should be working in collaboration with groups such as those represented here today, and listened to and engaged with. That is why we, as a committee, are delighted to host these groups today. The witnesses might take the opportunity to outline what the charter means in practice.