Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes, I discussed the question of human rights with the Prime Minister and made the very point that we do not want to see any diminution of human rights in any changes contemplated by the British Government or in the Human Rights Act. I understand that is not the immediate focus of the British Government at present.

If there is any change to the role of the European Union in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 or any change contemplated, we will obviously be on the side of the 27. Any change signalled would, of course, have to come before us, including the Barnier task force and, eventually, the European Council directly. That has not been raised directly with me.

With regard to Northern Ireland, obviously when people voted for the Good Friday Agreement in the North and South, they did so with the expectation of their being able to enjoy the rights, privileges and benefits of EU citizens. We want to see that maintained. We will work very hard in that regard. I do not want to see any change from what the people voted for and what was confirmed North and South.

The Deputy referred to generalities. Of course, this has gone on now for quite some time but we agree that there should be very good working relationships and that we want no change to the common travel area, which gives people a right of movement north, south, east and west for social purposes, residency and work. The Prime Minister is very committed to that, as are we.

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