Coalition wants talks on Brexit and UK ties by year end

Government figures have said they want tough negotiations on how Brexit may impact on Ireland’s trade or result in border checkpoints with the North to begin before the end of year.

However, a fresh threat by British prime minister Theresa May to walk away from the Brexit talks if a favourable deal looks unlikely has hit hopes in Government about negotiations for Ireland.

Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan said he was “concerned” by Ms May’s threat, which came after a show of strength among European leaders at a weekend summit in Brussels.