UUP Leader Steve Aiken OBE MLA has written to the four other Executive party leaders proposing a joint representation to the UK Government and European Commission to send a united message that the Northern Ireland Protocol is not working.   

The text of the letter is as follows:   

As we established on Friday, while much separates us, we are all in agreement that the NI protocol (NIP) isn’t working. While it’s fair to say that the breadth of our critique of the NIP ranges from ‘teething problems’ to its ‘dissolution’ we are all aware of the very real impacts that it is having on our economy, on confidence within the community, and it is acting as a catalyst for societal disruption.      

We can (and frequently do) indulge in the BREXIT blame game, but in reality, those arguments do not address the very real concerns that we all have with the NIP.  Furthermore, the triggering of Art 16 by the EU Commission on the 29th Jan, presented us with the very rare opportunity to all speak with one voice, but that unanimity of purpose has not resulted in the ameliorations in trading rules that are needed.    

This week Michael Gove and EU Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič will be meeting to discuss the NIP; the matters being discussed will affect many elements around the future of Northern Ireland, including how any decisions they make will impact on our society. To be making these decisions without at least considering, and listening to, our collective positions would not only be a mistake, but also a dereliction of the UK and EU Commission's responsibilities.      

I am therefore proposing that we, as leaders of the parties within the NI Executive, have the opportunity to consult with the two principals, preferably in joint session, before any decisions affecting our future and society are made. Under our joint signatures we should jointly communicate to Her Majesty’s Government and the EU Commission to make our position and request known.      

If both the EU Commission and the UK Government are indeed serious about defending the Belfast Agreement, consulting with those who will be impacted most, should be an acceptable and reasonable request.      

I would be grateful if you would give my proposal due consideration and let me know if you think that this is something that we can pursue.      

Steve Aiken