Fears of export tariffs, job losses and neglect of North

The confirmation by Britain of a hard exit from the European Union has led to fears of fresh tariffs being applied on Irish exports, the loss of jobs, and the neglect of the North.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny tried to allay concerns in the Dáil yesterday, following British prime minister Theresa May’s speech in which she outlined parts of her strategy for Brexit.

However, the opposition said the Tory leader’s speech was disappointing and in fact now pointed an agenda for a “very hard Brexit” and very difficult negotiations for Ireland ahead.