Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind the Deputy that negotiations have not yet commenced. To look for the end of the story before the negotiations have even commenced is probably somewhat ambitious. I welcome what Commissioner Barnier said, when he clearly indicated his understanding of the position on the island of Ireland and, furthermore, that he is anxious that this position be "defended". I also welcome what Commissioner Moscovici has said regarding his understanding of our position going into the negotiations.

Regarding controls round the Border, I assume the Deputy is referring to customs posts or any structures that might impede the free flow of people and goods. Our priority is to maintain the invisible Border. The establishment of any type of Border controls, such as posts on the Border, or any customs arrangements, would be a regrettable step for mobility on the island. I discussed the issue as recently as last week with my colleague, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. It is in the shared interests of Ireland and the UK to ensure the invisible Border can be maintained. This will be a priority of Ireland heading into the negotiation process. We have prepared for it.

I need not remind the Deputy that the future arrangements regarding the Border will not be exclusively determined by the UK and Ireland but will be influenced by the wider negotiations between the EU 27 and the UK. We are very conscious of it and I am satisfied, so far, that there is very much an understanding on the part of our colleagues. The issue has been a focus of our talks with the UK, albeit not at negotiation level.

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