Foreign Affairs and Trade Committee to discuss the implications of Brexit on Irish foreign policy

The Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Defence will tomorrow meet to consider the implications of Brexit for Irish foreign policy with Professor Gary Murphy of Dublin City University and Professor Gavin Barrett of University College Dublin.

The meeting will commence at 9.30am in Committee Room 1 tomorrow, Thursday, 11 May 2017.

Committee Chairman, Brendan Smith TD, said “The global social and political landscape is in an increasing state of flux and, with the advent of the Brexit negotiations, there is no question that Irish and EU foreign and security policy must take account of this change. Tomorrow, we will have the chance to discuss this area with Professors Murphy and Barrett and hear their expert analysis on what the implications of Brexit will be for both Irish and EU foreign policy. The exit of a large, predominantly English speaking member State with a strong presence on international issues is bound to have knock on effects. We must find ways to mitigate those as best we can.  As negotiations get underway it will be imperative to ensure the EU remains an important global actor and that Ireland’s voice remains strong around the EU table.”

“Members will, of course, look to discuss how Brexit will affect the border with Northern Ireland in particular, and how we can make our voice heard in the negotiation process in order to protect jobs, increase economic growth in an all-island economy and continue positive social integration.”

Committee proceedings can be viewed live here.

Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the move, through the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.