Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy on the need to ensure we can maintain the open Border and the bilateral arrangement of many years standing, the common travel area, in the context of the negotiations. In this regard, let me repeat that Ireland, in conjunction with and as a member of the EU 27, is pleased so far that our EU colleagues have recognised fully the unique circumstances on the island of Ireland.

However, as I said earlier, the UK also has its responsibilities and will need to come to the table with an open mind and show by its actions its commitment to its stated objective of protecting the gains of the Good Friday Agreement and the maintenance of an open Border. It is premature to begin setting out in detail possible solutions. I expect the negotiations will commence shortly after the conclusion of the British general election on 8 June. Ireland will work with the task force and our EU partners to find solutions in line with our commitment to the integrity of the Single Market, our priorities being the maintenance of the open Border and the full protection of the common travel area in line with our commitments, obligations and duties under the Good Friday Agreement and subsequent agreements.

See this speech in context