Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on European and Foreign Affairs Seán Haughey T.D. has said that the lack of progress in the latest round of Brexit talks is worrying. Mr. Haughey made his comments following the conclusion of round 3 of the negotiations.
Commenting, Deputy Haughey said, “I am growing increasingly concerned about the lack of progress in the Brexit negotiations. The lack of progress in areas such as level playing field provisions or on the issue of the single governance framework is a cause of concern.
“Whilst a one or two-year extension to the transition period is possible the UK have so far ruled this out. It is now a very real possibility that the UK may exit the transition period in approximately 7 months’ time and trade under WTO rules which would be a hammer blow to our economy. This is the last thing our businesses, SMEs, farmers and fishermen need after suffering huge losses because of the Covid-19 Pandemic.
“I believe that every effort needs to be made in the weeks ahead to try and reach a consensus with the UK on the need to extend the transition period. Given what is at stake it is clear that more time and space is needed to negotiate a future trade agreement that will work in the best interests of the EU and the UK. There will be no winners if the UK exit under WTO terms”, concluded Deputy Haughey.
