Farry says Executive needs to get its act together on Brexit

Alliance Economy spokesperson Stephen Farry MLA has said continued Brexit divisions in the Executive means the region is “falling to the back of the queue” in terms of high-level engagement.

North Down MLA Mr Farry said the deep divisions between the First Minister and deputy first Minister were damaging Northern Ireland’s ability to make its case in any negotiations following the EU referendum.

“Already we see the new Prime Minister, Theresa May, meet with the First Minister of Scotland and the First Minister of Wales. By contrast, our top team is due to have a phonecall on Tuesday with David Davis, the Brexit Minister.

“Northern Ireland can’t afford to leave itself at the back of the queue. This region is set to be the one most adversely affected by any departure from the European Union. It is incumbent on the Executive to recognise Northern Ireland is a distinct political entity with the UK, with a unique set of constitutional arrangements.

“It should also recognise Northern Ireland voted to remain, while setting out the key challenges that will have a particular impact on us and which need to be taken into account and any special considerations that must be explored.

“We are nearly a month on after the Brexit vote and in contrast to what is happening in other jurisdictions, Northern Ireland is seeing a major opportunity to negotiate principles and priorities slip by.”

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