Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That is correct. I am going to ask three questions in two and a half minutes and hopefully the Minister of State can reply in that time. A hard or no-deal Brexit is now looking increasingly likely. This will have serious consequences for businesses and SMEs already struggling due to Covid-19. There seem to be several disagreements between the EU and the UK in the negotiations. These include the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol, fisheries, level playing field provisions and the overall governance structure of the future relationship. The assessment of Michel Barnier at the conclusion of round four of the negotiations 5 June was not very optimistic. Every effort should be made, even at this late stage to try to persuade the UK to seek an extension of the transition period and I note what the Minister of State had to say in that regard.

If there is no extension to the transition period, as looks likely, it is clear that the Oireachtas will be required to enact additional Brexit legislation. Can the Minister of State confirm that a new Brexit omnibus Bill is being prepared? Given that a significant amount of work will be needed across Government Departments on this, will she confirm that this matter is being given the urgency that it requires, so we can look forward to a new Brexit omnibus Bill?

Second, what is the position concerning the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol? This protocol is essential for the protection of the peace process, among other things. Is the UK backsliding on the implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol? As Michel Barnier said, we need to "move from aspiration to operation". We all agree with that statement.

Third, what has been done to prepare vulnerable sectors of our economy, businesses, SMEs and individuals, for the disruption and change coming their way as a result of Brexit? Is this work being given added impetus now that a hard Brexit is very much on the horizon?

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