Case for a dedicated Minister for Brexit grows every day

​Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Darragh O’Brien TD has questioned the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade on the Government's strategy for dealing with the growing challenges presented by Brexit.


Speaking in the Dáil earlier today, Deputy O’Brien said, “In light of the decision of Prime Minister Theresa May not to appoint the Northern Irish Secretary of State to her Brexit Committee, we must respond with a multifaceted approach.


“We have an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment as a strong and intrinsic part of the European Union, and a member that wants to continue and further strengthen its ties with the European Union. We must endeavour to ensure that we are able to continue trading with the North of Ireland in particular and our neighbours in Britain for the good of both our peoples.


“My concern is that while everyone seems to be in charge, no one is in charge and the current Government attitude seems to be that we should just hold tight and things will work out.


“The case for a separate Minister for Brexit grows every day.  The role of this minister would be to lead and co-ordinate the response to all of the cross departmental issues that are now presenting.  


“It is necessary that we show our colleagues in Europe that while we will rightly advocate for special status for Northern Ireland under the Good Friday Agreement, we will also ensure we remain at the centre of European policy making.