Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her reply. I acknowledge the ongoing co-operation that exists between her and the UK Home Secretary. The common travel area and the rights of Irish people North and South of the Border to free movement on the island of Ireland are hugely important.

There has to be concern about the rights of Irish citizens that are living in the UK as well. I do accept that the mechanisms are not in place yet with regard to Brexit. However, from looking at the recent White Paper on Brexit from the UK Government, I would have some concerns. For example, the priority given to the strong and historic ties with Ireland and to maintaining the common travel area is a good thing. However, there is a contradiction where it specifically says "while protecting the integrity of the UK's immigration system". The UK pledge to maintain the travel area comes with a strong qualifier. It may even be a disqualifier.

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