Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson met the European Union´s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier in Strasbourg this afternoon.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Nicholson said:
“There is no doubt in my mind that a no deal Brexit remains a very real possibility. I have always been clear that this would be devastating for both the UK and the European Union (EU), but particularly for Northern Ireland. The EU’s intransigence has increased the likelihood of a no deal Brexit - to avoid this scenario the Withdrawal Agreement will need to be re-opened.
“I reiterated to Mr. Barnier that the backstop, rather than protecting the Belfast Agreement, eats away at its very foundations and mocks the principle of consent. It has haunted the negotiations from the very beginning, and its inclusion is a clear obstacle to the passing of the Withdrawal Agreement at Westminster.
“The extension to article 50 provides the space needed for a renewed emphasis on renegotiation, but the UK Government must also show its willingness to do so. A sensible deal is still within our grasp.”