Minister urges Ireland to facilitate UK return to EU
Neale Richmond states the Republic must work within Brussels to create a pathway for Britain, amid rising diplomatic interest in reversing Brexit.
By Takeshi Davidson ·
The Irish government allocated a record 7.8 million pounds, or 9.1 million euros, to support Irish diaspora communities in Britain next year. This sum represents a two million euro increase in funding through the State’s Emigrant Support Programme.
Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, announced the financial package while speaking in London on Thursday. He used the event to argue that the Republic must actively work within the European Union to ensure Britain has a clear route back to the bloc. Richmond stated that the responsibility lies with Ireland to make that process as smooth as possible.
The minister acknowledged that British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has recently revived the debate over reversing Brexit. Burnham, a long-time critic of the country’s departure from the EU, has suggested that Britain might seek to rejoin the single market or customs union. He has also floated the idea of accepting EU freedom of movement in exchange for a better trade deal.
Richmond noted that while there are sensitivities about Ireland advocating too closely for a British return, the position is not contradictory. He cited ministers from France, Spain, and Germany who have voiced their desire to see Brexit reversed. Richmond argued that Ireland’s support for a return would not be an anomaly but rather a reflection of the stance held by other major EU partners.
The minister emphasized that a formal decision on a new referendum or a change in policy remains a matter for the British government and people. However, he said the Republic needs to be prepared to react if that policy shifts. Richmond described the current diplomatic mood as one where the light is on, signaling a willingness to welcome the UK back.
Prime Minister Burnham will attend his first EU-UK summit in Brussels next month. The agenda will include finalizing a youth mobility scheme to facilitate work and study between the two regions. Negotiators will also address post-Brexit agri-food rules and potential protections for the British car manufacturing industry against new European supply chain regulations.
Richmond indicated there is a desire to expand existing agreements during that summit. He framed the upcoming discussions as an opportunity to deepen ties, even as the question of full re-entry remains open for discussion among EU leaders.
