Ireland’s Taoiseach: Unilateral action on NI Protocol would be deeply damaging

Roberta Metsola, president of the European Parliament, has stated that the Northern Ireland Protocol was not up for negotiation. On several occasions, the Parliament has reaffirmed its support for the protocol and remains fully committed to maintaining peace on the island.

President Metsola spoke out about the conflict in Ukraine and praised the Irish government for "being the first EU country to exempt Ukrainians from visa requirements, as well as for welcoming close to 30,000 refugees who sought refuge in Ireland".

Taoiseach Micheál Martin  stressed the importance of EU membership in promoting democracy and peace in Europe. "I hope it will be possible for the European Council to convey a positive message to the Ukrainian people when they meet in June."

After the unveiling of the statue in honour of John Hume (ex-MEP) on Tuesday night (7 June), Martin expressed gratitude for the "absolutely transparent" support that the European Parliament had given to the Good Friday Agreement.

He said that unilateral action to discredit a solemn accord would be "deeply damaging" and was referring to ongoing negotiations with the UK government over the Northern Ireland Protocol. It would be a historic low point, signalling a disregard of essential principles of laws that are the foundation for international relations. It would be, literally, to the benefit absolutely no one.

Martin stated that his government was open to the discussion on the future Europe and said it would work constructively to shape the future. He also indicated that they are open to the possibility of treaty changes if necessary. However, we should first do our best within the existing framework.

Watch President Metsola's opening remarks here and the speech of Taoiseach here.

Leaders of political groups

MEPs responded to Martin's speech by reaffirming their solidarity with Ireland in dealing with Brexit's consequences and stating that they would continue to protect Ireland's interests. They stated that negotiations in good faith are the only way to reach a mutually satisfying resolution and they remain concerned at the UK's lack of good will. They called for a convention that would allow the EU treaties to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. MEPs called on Ireland to lead the climate transition. This is crucial for Europe's future prosperity. You can view speeches by leaders of political groups.

Watch the full discussion here.

Background

This was the third of a series on EU debates entitled 'This Is Europe', on a common agenda to secure Europe's future. The first was with Kaja Kallas (prime minister of Estonia), at the March plenary, while the second was with Mario Draghi, prime minister from Italy, in May.

Share this article: