Dáil debates

Thursday, 14 December 2017

12:10 pm

Photo of Mary Lou McDonaldMary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The remarks I have made to the Tánaiste are based in full on exactly what he has secured in writing. I have simply reflected to him the fact that no sooner was the ink dry on those agreements and assurances that the British side was rowing back, or backsliding to use the term from earlier. I am not seeking to cause a difficulty for the Tánaiste, I am seeking to get the very assurance that he says he also seeks. The Taoiseach will attend the EU Council and it is clear that matters will now advance to phase two. This fact is not being contested.

Will the Taoiseach ask for additional assurances over the next two days? Will any such assurances be legally binding? Will any such assurances be contained in the conclusions of the European Council? Under no circumstances should the fate of this island, its economic, political or social well-being, be left to whims of the British Conservatives and the vagaries of whatever position it might or might not take on any given day. I am sure the Tánaiste will agree that it would be irresponsible to allow a scenario like that to play out. Will the Taoiseach ask this of the Council and will we have, by close of business tomorrow, legally binding assurances which would be welcomed across the island?

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