The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, and his team will travel to Dublin today for talks with the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, and the Minister for Finance at Government Buildings.The summit will decide whether or not the UK should be granted an extension to the Brexit deadline, which currently is due to expire on Friday.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has made it clear that he is open to granting a second extension to the UK, as long as British Prime Minister Theresa May has a clear plan that is focused on a future relationship rather than trying to re-open the Withdrawal Agreement. It is understood the Taoiseach, who will be joined by Simon Coveney and Paschal Donohoe, will want to emphasise the extent of Ireland's preparedness for a no-deal Brexit in his meeting with Mr Barnier.
Party president Mary Lou McDonald and vice-president Michelle O'Neill are also set for discussions with Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley.Yesterday, Ms McDonald said she would tell the Labour leader that Irish interests must be protected whatever the outcome of his Brexit negotiations with Mrs May.
Leo: We want cattle checked here, lorries checked here and cars & foot passengers checked here (pointing to map)