Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

2 o’clock

In respect of Deputy Howlin's comments about the European Parliament discussing this at the moment and Michel Barnier responding and making comments there, it is true to say that one does not do deals with any individual country of the 27. It is with the Union that this happens. That is why I have explained to others internationally that it is important to understand what the European Union is, what it stands for, how it functions and how trade deals are put together.

Michel Barnier has commented on a few occasions that he thinks it would be possible to conclude the "divorce proceedings", as they are called, within the two-year framework. Whether that is possible or not is anybody's guess. When these negotiations start in earnest, both about the withdrawal and the future relationship, I expect them to become complicated. Article 50 is clear, however, in that, if it is not concluded, one either has the option of blunt removal with all that entails or an extension of time granted unanimously by the members of the European Council, which I would expect would be granted were that situation to arise. However, as the Deputy says, nobody can say exactly what the outcome there will be.

I expect that there has to be a transition period. As to putting a time on it, it could be quite extensive.

See this speech in context