Brexit should be a big issue in this election

As we head towards February 26, I feel one issue not being discussed, despite the serious implications it could have for Ireland, is Brexit.

From an Irish perspective I firmly oppose Brexit. A British exit from the EU has potential to seriously harm Ireland’s economic interests. A healthy British economy is important in sustaining our economic recovery. An exit may result in trade barriers that, as the smaller of the two economies, would have a greater impact on Ireland. Indeed the UK could attempt to join the European Economic Area or the European

Free Trade Agreement. But as Norway and Switzerland discovered, that comes at a price. Establishing an agreement would be a lengthy process too.