‘Disruptive’ EU must work with us
THE European Union was last night accused of causing “significant political instability” in Northern Ireland as politicians urged that a “pragmatic” solution be found.
A Government source blamed the EU for causing “sustained disruption” to daily life.
There is widespread anger in Unionist circles about the Northern Ireland protocol – a deal with the EU which avoided border checks with the Republic of Ireland but has frustrated trade with the rest of Britain. Former Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers said the protocol may have to be suspended.
She said: “The
EU’S absolutist approach is making the protocol disruptive to life in Northern Ireland.
“This is causing significant political instability.
“With a tense parading season starting, it is more important than ever that a pragmatic approach is taken. If the EU will not act reasonably then the whole protocol may have to be suspended.”
In a stinging criticism of
Brussels, a senior
Government source said: “The protocol relies on the support of all communities in Northern Ireland, which requires respect for the Good Friday Agreement in all its dimensions – Northsouth and East-west.
“Unfortunately, the EU continue to treat the regulatory boundary in the Irish Sea as if it were like any other external EU border.
“As a result we are seeing sustained disruption, despite the extraordinary efforts of businesses to make things
work.”