Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The referendum result on 23 June confirming that the UK was going to withdraw from the EU was quite a shock, even though it had been a distinct possibility. Brexit has caused unprecedented political and economic uncertainty across Europe, particularly in Ireland. We have had ten months to come to grips with this unwelcome decision by the UK and will have to adjust as best we can to the new reality.

European countries have responded through their democratic systems by rejecting anti-European parties and have confirmed their commitment to the ideals of a European community by electing pro-European governments in Austria, the Netherlands, France and, I hope, Germany later this year. Thus, the prospects for European ideals look good. Ireland's interests are best served by committing to Europe rather than by aligning with the UK, even though it is our closest and most important trading partner. The EU portrays a better vision for Ireland, one that will yield a better sense of co-operation and collaboration in working together for the common good.

We must respect the UK's decision to leave while recognising that Scotland and Northern Ireland had a majority vote to remain in Europe. It is worth considering that Brexit, which was intended to copper-fasten the UK's independence from Europe, may precipitate the disintegration of the UK with the loss of Scotland and Northern Ireland in the years to come.

Ireland has established with the EU our special position in terms of the Border with the North and all the economic, political and social ramifications that will flow from having a European border on this island. It is extraordinary that the UK, having fought two world wars on mainland Europe in defence of small nations, has now decided that its future lies elsewhere. However, we must respect its decision, even though it reflects poor political leadership in that it gave an opportunity to Brexiteers to sell a false message about European solidarity and the benefits of membership. The Conservative Government used the EU as a weapon to fight its own internal party and domestic difficulties and lost. Those who promoted Brexit were nationalistic and insular and lacked self-confidence. The Brexiteers appealed to the UK's fears rather than its hopes. Unfortunately, the fears won the day.

I would caution against punishing the UK for its decision to leave Europe. Of course it will have a cost for us all, but that cost should not be made worse by forcing a hard Brexit, especially for Ireland, which can least tolerate such an outcome. We must consider the long-term outlook and what Europe will look like post Brexit. We must not cut off our nose to spite our face. A fair and honourable outcome should be our goal, not to punish our former EU partner and closest neighbour. However, the UK will pay a large price for Brexit in the long term and it is not looking at the big picture. Where will the UK's new economic trading blocs be, will the UK have the same relationships it had with the EU, and will its new partners have its best interests at heart?

I welcome the EU's protection of the Good Friday Agreement, its protection of Irish citizens in the UK and its protection and recognition of Northern Ireland in the event of a united Ireland.

Many sectors in Ireland are worried about what Brexit will mean for their livelihoods. We must protect Ireland's exports, particularly in agrifood. Farmers are concerned in this regard. Some 50% of our beef exports go to the UK, as do one third of our dairy products, 60% of our poultry and 33% of our timber. Some 51% of total agricultural food exports from Ireland go to the UK and 51% of total agricultural imports come from there. These are important factors. It is our preference to maintain the closest possible trading relationship between the UK and Ireland. Our best economic prospects and interests lie firmly in a strong and well-functioning Single Market and all the prosperity that brings.

Now that we have overcome the initial shock of Brexit, it is time to concentrate on the task ahead. Commentators and journalists need to avoid unnecessary negativity and pessimism while maintaining a critical assessment of progress in the negotiations. We need a constructive and realistic debate that places the interests and welfare of the Irish people first and foremost in the upcoming negotiations.

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