Europe
5 years ago

Ireland hopes no-deal Brexit plan 'sits on shelf'

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The Irish deputy prime minister has said he hopes that major legislation his government has prepared to manage a no-deal Brexit will never be used.

Simon Coveney unveiled the wide-ranging bill on Friday, bringing together work by nine government departments, reports BBC.

He said a "disorderly" Brexit would be a "lose, lose, lose" for the UK, the EU and the Republic of Ireland.

His aim for the emergency proposals is to ensure a smooth transition should the UK leave the EU without a deal.

The legislation is designed to support businesses and to protect jobs, essential services and citizens' rights.

It is envisaged that it will be fast-tracked through the Irish parliament and be signed into law before March 29, when the UK is due to leave the EU.

'Mitigate against worst effects'

Mr Coveney said he hoped it "proves redundant" and his "only desire" was to see it sit "on the shelf".

"A no-deal Brexit will be a major shock for the Irish economy," he added.

"We cannot offset all the damage it will do, but we are doing everything we can.

"This legislation is the product of a root-and-branch trawl of our laws to determine what changes will be needed if the UK becomes a third country overnight."

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