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Taoiseach meets Michel Barnier

20170511 Barnier Post

Taoiseach Enda Kenny speaks with EU Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier in Government Buildings

Taoiseach Enda Kenny today met with Michel Barnier Chief EU Brexit Negotiator following his address to the Joint Houses of the Oireachtas.

The Taoiseach described Mr Barnier as...

...a longstanding friend of Ireland - not just as a leading French politician and Minister, but also as a European Commissioner for Regional Policy which gave him a particular insight to the unique circumstances on the island of Ireland that will be central to the talks ahead.

The Taoiseach said:

Ireland is committed to playing a strong and active role as a member of the EU27. We are well prepared and will continue to ensure that our concerns and priorities are reflected in the EU negotiating position as it evolves, and that we work closely with our EU partners, the EU institutions and Mr. Barnier and his team, towards a strong and constructive future relationship with the UK.

Read the Taoiseach's speech to the Dáil here.

Read Mr Barnier's address here.