Ruairi Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

On the EU Council meeting, pandemic solutions come to mind. We have taken particular initiatives in terms of a health solution. We need co-ordination across Europe in that regard. We have had an element of co-ordination in regard to financial packages and the possibility of future financial initiatives. This needs to happen on a global basis and on a Europe-wide basis. Yesterday, in response to a question, the Taoiseach spoke about the difficulties arising if we are not lucky enough to get a vaccine. There has been much scientific work done and there has been some really good news regarding a number of vaccine programmes that are operating at this point. However, there are no guarantees. We need to ensure a free-flow of money so that businesses and families can access the supports they need. Beyond this, we need co-ordination in respect of testing regimes. A number of Deputies have spoken about the difficulties around the test, trace and isolate infrastructure, particularly in the context of schools. We have a particular difficulty here regarding the speed with which we carry out rapid testing, including through the use of antigen and LAMP tests. I realise that this is being operated in some places in Europe, particularly in the context of air travel. We could also use it alongside PCR testing to deal with some of the specific difficulties we face.

It goes without saying that at this point that we also face Brexit. I welcome what appears to be solidarity from across Europe. We need to ensure that this is the case. We also welcome solidarity from the US. We have a difficulty in regard to the United Kingdom Internal Market Bill and what it promises. We have had commentary that is not helpful from David Frost, Michael Gove and Boris Johnson.

Some of the mood music today is better and that is to be welcomed. We hope this is a negotiating gambit and that it is a case of Britain trying to put its head into Europe's head and put on the pressure.

We accept what has been said in this House and many other places, which is that Britain needs a deal with the EU and that 45% of its exports are to the European Union. My understanding is that figure is correct. However, the fact is that we have to take into account what Britain threatens. We have to make preparations. It is vital that there are contingency plans, including supports for businesses, supports across the Border and east-west preparations. We need to ensure beyond all doubt that there will be no return to a hard border. It is without doubt that soon we will be looking at a constitutional change on this island as the solution to the relationship with Britain.

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