Opposition role in Brexit negotiations
Deputy Howlin asks for formal arrangements to involve Opposition parties in Brexit preparations, while also supporting collective action for Ibrahim Halawa. Minister Bruton agrees that all parties should be involved and says the Government will consider practical initiatives on Halawa’s case.
I wish to associate myself and my party with the comments of several Deputies in respect of Ibrahim Halawa. I hope we can have a collective initiative on this in the next week or so, because what we have been doing to date is not working.
Will the Minister respond on what formal arrangements the Government is putting in place to involve the Opposition parties in the coming phase of interaction with the European partners and the United Kingdom in respect of Brexit? All of us have cross-party links with the S&D group, the ALDE group, the EPP group or others. It is important to have a formal structure to involve all of us in what is an important common national endeavour. I would be obliged if the Minister would outline that.
Will the Minister confirm that the Christmas bonus is to be paid this year?
Comment on this
I agree with the Deputy on the case of Ibrahim Halawa. If there are initiatives that can be developed, there is no doubt that we will be keen to support them.
Comment on this
Yes, indeed, but there has to be something that has been thought out and that has a likelihood of success. The Government and the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, will be happy to discuss initiatives that can be taken.
I agree with the Deputy that it will be important that all political parties in the House are actively involved in the process that is about to start when the British activate the relevant article, especially if the existing structures are inadequate for the House to consider how to deal with it. At this point we do not know the precise framework of the negotiations. There will be issues, no doubt, as we go through the process. For example, in the energy area undoubtedly there will be sectoral issues that will be of concern to Members, in particular Members of the Oireachtas committee in the energy area. The same applies throughout the agenda. We will be keen to engage with all parties and I know the Taoiseach met parties and has underlined his belief that there is a role for all parties involved.
I will alert him to Deputy Howlin's concern. If there are structures that we could put in place that would assist, I am sure he will support them.