Brexit - Visit to Dublin by European Commission’s Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier

On 12 October 2016, Minister Charlie Flanagan met in Dublin with the European Commission’s Chief Negotiator on Brexit, Michel Barnier. The meeting formed part of Mr. Barnier’s first visit to Ireland following his appointment to the role earlier that month.

Taking place ahead of the formal opening of Brexit negotiations, the meeting allowed for discussion of key issues arising for Ireland. The unique situation in relation to Northern Ireland, the border and the central importance of this dimension to all on the island of Ireland were a particular focus of exchanges.

Mr. Barnier’s programme while in Dublin also included further separate meetings with Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald at which issues relating to Northern Ireland, the Common Travel Area and the depth of Ireland’s economic and trade relationship with the UK were also discussed.

Minister Flanagan also held a range of other meetings and engagements with his counterparts across all EU capitals and with key figures in the EU institutions throughout 2016.