Ulster Unionist Party Leader, Robin Swann MLA, has written to the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach calling for them to create a Common Travel Area for goods between the UK and the Republic of Ireland to break the backstop impasse.
Ulster Unionist Party Leader, Robin Swann MLA, said:
“Given the resounding defeat of the Prime Minister`s Withdrawal Agreement, it`s time for new thinking and a new approach.
“I have written to the Prime Minister, political leaders across the UK, the Taoiseach, and Jean-Claude Juncker asking that they give serious consideration to reaching an agreement which replicates the Common Travel Area for people - which already exists and operates perfectly well - and create a Common Travel Area for goods which would work throughout the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland.
“A no deal Brexit is in absolutely no-one`s interests. Our proposal could break the current impasse and it is an option that should be given serious consideration as there is an existing precedent.
“I disagree with the Taoiseach`s assertion that the onus is solely on Westminster to come up with solutions. The onus is on everyone to play their part, including Leo Varadkar and his EU colleagues. The Withdrawal Agreement in its current form is not going to pass through Westminster so Dublin needs to accept reality and engage in constructive discussions. There is time, but is there the will?”