Michel Barnier visit about what he learns from us, not vice-versa

There was a lot of fuss around Leinster House this week in anticipation of the arrival of EU Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, writes Juno McEnroe.

Fresh flowers were out, security was increased and the best ties and dresses were worn. But his visit will probably be not so much about what Irish citizens and parliamentarians learnt from the erudite EU official but more what he took away himself.

Barnier was left in no doubt about Irish needs. Irish negotiators will be hoping that it will be these concerns, doubts and demands that will hang on the Frenchman’s mind when he does battle with Britain on behalf of the 27 member states during the Brexit negotiations in the months ahead.