Border fears after Brexit
A Sligo councillor who is native of the Blacklion area has spoken about the uncertainty which Brexit is having on the area.
Clr. Sinéad Maguire was recently interviewed by German TV Broadcaster ARD on Brexit and the effect it may have on those living and working in the border area.
As the current Chair of cross- border partnership, the Irish Central Border Area Network ( ICBAN), Councillor Maguire spoke of the positive impact that EU cross- border funding has had in the Central Border Region. Councillor Maguire cited the Border Uplands Project as a positive example of cross- border partnership working. Not far from Blacklion, at the Cavan Burren Park, walking trails and an interpretative centre were developed as part of this project; which also delivered the Queen Maeve Trail in Sligo and the boardwalk at Cuilcagh Mountain on the Fermanagh/ Cavan border. Beyond the current programming period, there is concern at how meaningful cross- border projects and partnerships would be funded, and how any gaps in EU funding could be plugged in the future.
The Blackion- Belcoo area in particular area has experienced progression in the last 20 years with the removal of customs posts and a ‘ hard border’. Brexit brings about uncertainty as to what a border between an EU member state and a non- EU member state will look like, how it would function and ultimately what it would mean for those living, working and travelling in this area.
Clr. Maguire said Article 50 created much ambiguity while it provided a means for a member state to disengage from the union many of the terms of that disengagement were not defined which has resulted in uncertainty and apprehension for many. Clr Maguire discussed the many hurdles to be overcome during negotiations, particularly access to the common market and free movement of people.
In the coming months, ICBAN through the county council members will be carrying out research on the impact of Brexit on the residents of the region to ensure the voice of the border area is considered by both the UK and Irish Governments.