The Ulster Unionist Party Leader, Robin Swann MLA, has said that a delay to leaving the EU will be worth it if it ultimately results in a deal which is in the best interest of Northern Ireland in particular and the UK as a whole.
Mr Swann said:
“The Ulster Unionist Party has previously called for an extension to Article 50 and it seems the Prime minister has been listening. If it ensures we get a deal, then a short extension is unfortunate but worth it in the end. We want to see the Referendum result honoured but, with a deal for Northern Ireland that does not include the backstop which undermines the Belfast Agreement and the principle of consent.
“The Brexit which the DUP promised will not be delivered by the present proposals.
What we are facing is the ongoing jurisdiction of the European Court; inability for UK to negotiate and implement trade deals with third countries; goods from England coming to Northern Ireland to be treated as if they were from 3rd country; a top heavy series of committees effectively running Northern Ireland with no input from here. The UK will be a rule taker from EU with no representation.
“It really didn’t have to be like this.”