Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I have raised on several occasions that this is an unsatisfactory way to deal with fundamental issues. The Taoiseach has in the past agreed with me that we must have a better structure for debate on Brexit issues. I want my party to be supportive of the Government position because it is in our national interest that, by and large, the House be united in terms of its thinking on and approach to this issue. Although I do not wish to be discordant, I am a little concerned that there seems to be a divergence of views coming from the Government. At the weekend, I heard the Taoiseach's view which gives comfort to those in the United Kingdom who are positing the position that it will be all right, we can have a normal relationship after Brexit and everything will be fine. Some in Britain are campaigning for the final settlement to be put to a vote. That is in our national interest and I hope that all Members will work to that end.

The Tánaiste, Deputy Coveney, has stated that if we do not see substantive progress on the alternative to a backstop by June, then we will not see it by October. However, the Taoiseach has stated that it will be grand if we do not see it until October. We must have much clearer, sharper and more joined up messaging. I would like the opportunity for us to debate these issues in the House such that we can all be on message and be clearer in the message we are giving to the United Kingdom authorities in particular.

See this speech in context