Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We are now entering the witching period with regard to Brexit when deals and compromises emerge, very often late at night. The Government is hinting heavily that a deal on the backstop is nigh and that Ireland is willing to compromise on the previously cast-iron backstop guarantee. Michel Barnier is speculating on "de-dramatising" the backstop. Does the Taoiseach agree that this is a period of maximum danger for Ireland, notwithstanding the valuable solidarity offered to us by our colleagues in the EU? From a democratic point of view, the Taoiseach needs to enlighten people about what the Government's position is now as against what he previously described in this Chamber as a cast-iron commitment. We need to know the Government's plan of action and its approach to these negotiations. We do not want the Taoiseach to come back with some outcome that is less than satisfactory and causes serious problems in respect of the Border. Everybody, North and South, regardless of background, agrees on what is the most favourable outcome for Ireland. Now we find that this is in some peril. Will the Taoiseach enlighten us about his plans?

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