Coffey contributes to key session on Brexit at FF Ard Fheis

Published on: 20 January 2016


Fianna Fáil General Election candidate for Louth and East Meath Emma Coffey has given a detailed outline of the risks posed to Ireland in the event that the UK exits the European Union.

Emma made the comments during a key session on Brexit at the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis. The Louth Dáil candidate contributed to the panel discussion and was joined by Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs & Border Regional Development Brendan Smith in the discussion. Leading economist Michael Darcy, who is currently Programme Lead for the All-Island Investment Project and Programme, also gave a presentation to the Ard Fheis.

“I’m greatly concerned by the risks associated with a UK exit from the EU to the border region and Louth in particular. It would completely undermine the fragile economic recovery and would greatly impact on job creation. It’s the single biggest threat to the Irish economy,” said Emma.

“Fianna Fáil recognises the threats associated with a possible Brexit. That’s why we devoted a key session of our Ard Fheis to the subject. I was delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to this session and highlight that we as a country need to be prepared for a possible UK exit from the EU. I made the point that our Government should be working with the UK to persuade them to stay firmly within the EU.

“People haven’t had the time to digest the chaos that Brexit would bring to areas such as Louth. It would result in the reinstatement of border controls and the freedom of movement along the border could be restricted. This would undoubtedly cause economic damage and would also divide people who have family on both sides of the border. It would undermine the great work that has been achieved to date through the Good Friday Agreement.

“The reality is the referendum could be held as early as this summer. Given that there’s so much at stake, it is imperative that time is given to assessing and dealing with the issue so that the Government is prepared for the result, whatever the outcome.”

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