Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The point has been well recognised by the British Government, as articulated by me and the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, on so many occasions. We have special recognition and special circumstances and we are unique in a European sense. As the Deputy knows, I have pointed out on many occasions the peace process, PEACE funds and INTERREG funds add up to recognition in Europe of Ireland's particular case. Michel Barnier, the head of the Brexit task force, has as one of his four priorities dealing with the Northern Ireland issue, the Border, trade and the implications for the Good Friday Agreement. We will not stand for any diminution of the Good Friday Agreement. The Minister, Deputy Flanagan, articulates this every time he meets his counterparts. The Good Friday Agreement is an internationally legally binding agreement, lodged with the UN, voted for by people North and South and supported overwhelmingly at a time Britain was not contemplating leaving the European Union. This is a political issue we need to address. For our part we will be very strong in defence of the Good Friday Agreement. Why would we not be? Did not the people vote for it?

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