We are entering a critical phase in the Brexit process. At this juncture, it is essential that the Government stands steadfast in its commitment to the protection of human rights across the whole island.

David Cameron is today hoping to kick off the G8 summit in Northern Ireland with progress on a free trade deal between Europe and the US which he believes could “turbo-charge the transatlantic economy”.

The battle lines between France and Germany were last night threatening to scupper an outline for fiscal, banking, and political union in return for joint responsibility for debt that is aimed at restoring some market confidence in the eurozone.

Ireland should be granted a deal to lower its bank debt now that it has passed the fiscal treaty, Enda Kenny has said.