Taoiseach meets with European Commission's Chief Brexit Negotiator

Taoiseach Enda Kenny today met with the European Commission's Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier at Government Buildings today.

Mr Barnier assumed his role at the start of the month and is currently on a tour of European capitals, ahead of beginning negotiations on behalf of the EU with Britain on Brexit.

Formal negotiations process begins next year. Speaking after the meeting the Taoiseach said: "I was delighted to meet with Michel Barnier in Dublin today - he is well-known to us here in Ireland, has a strong appreciation of our close historical, political and economic ties with the UK, and also knows of our strong commitment to EU membership.”

“During our discussions, I took the opportunity to emphasise Ireland's unique set of priorities with regard to Brexit, and the many complex issues relating to Northern Ireland, the Common Travel Area and the depth of our economic and trade relationship with the UK,” he added.

Mr. Barnier also had meetings during the day with the Tánaiste France Fitzgerald, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan, and the Minister for European Affairs Dara Murphy.