Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not buy that entirely, to be frank. We must be very clear in terms of that relationship, particularly in light of the Taoiseach's comments. I know the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mr. Brokenshire, is not the final authority on Brexit within the British Government but his comments when visiting Brussels on Monday were quite negative. He stated the British Government does not support and will not seek any form of special status for Northern Ireland. He made some vague comments about maintaining convergence in animal health regulations, but the core of his comments were extremely negative. The Taoiseach indicated recently that he will seek special status when it is clear east-west trade will not involve membership of the Single Market by the UK. Has the Taoiseach communicated his disagreement with the Secretary of State's comments to the British Prime Minister, Ms Theresa May? What is his take on those comments?

The questions that have been asked about the certainties we have been given at this stage are valid, of course. Last week we were told the criteria were not there to progress, but this week it is different. In the same comment where the Taoiseach indicated there is utter confusion and nobody has any idea what will happen, the Taoiseach stated that despite this, he thought there could be progress.

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