Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I have no confidence that a strategic view has been taken on Ireland’s infrastructural needs in terms of Cork, Shannon and Rosslare. The strategy on Brexit was published on 19 December and stated the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport was engaging with ferry companies to maintain, develop and enhance strategic links to continental Europe. The day before it was published, Irish Ferries announced it was ceasing its direct link. When I told the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, it came as a surprise to him. That is the level of engagement, to take just one example of preparation.

All the Government's eggs have been put in the basket of getting the deal, and I accept it was a good negotiation. My only question now, and a simple one, is this. After putting all of Ireland's eggs in the basket of negotiating the withdrawal agreement, what is Ireland's plan B, or are we to be mere spectators as a potential disaster unfolds?

See this speech in context