Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has delivered his last speech to the European Parliament.
Addressing MEPs and senior EU figures including the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier in Strasbourg today, Jim Nicholson said:
“Last week’s decision to extend the Article 50 process was yet another example of the Brexit can being kicked down the road.
"The extension gives the opportunity to address the real problem. You will not be surprised Mr. Barnier, that I still consider that problem to be the backstop. I will not change that view. The backstop has haunted these negotiations since the beginning and will continue to do so, as long as you retain your position.
"I have to say, I can see no agreement at the end of October. I really believe now that it will take a new Commission; it will take a new Parliament; it will take new views to bring a solution to this problem.
"My view has always been simply if you´re a part of a club, you should be in the club. You cannot be half in the club, or half out. That is the trouble in which the UK finds itself.
"If I may, this will be my last speech in this Parliament after 30 years. I want to take the opportunity to say that it has been a great pleasure and an honour to represent the people of Northern Ireland in this house for 30 years.
"There have been some good times and some extremely sad times, where we went through some of the most terrible terrorism ever faced in any part of Europe. But this house, assisted by Jacques Delors, stood by the people of Northern Ireland. When John Hume, Ian Paisley and I went to see Jacques Delors at the beginning of the peace process he asked us ‘how can Europe help you?’ And Europe did help, with over 2 billion Euro extra funds that touched many, many people up and down the length and breadth of Northern Ireland.
"As I say farewell to this Parliament today, I can say I have enjoyed myself. I hope I have given it something. I hope I have represented my people well during my time here, because they are a proud people, they are great people - the people of Northern Ireland.
"Thank you.”