Committee examine Brexit backstop plans

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'Backstop' plans for Irish border

Following the European Council in Brussels, and the Prime Minister's statement to the House of Commons this Monday afternoon, this evidence session will focus on the proposed backstop arrangements for the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Industry impact on both sides of the border

In the first panel, the Committee is expected to examine the current state of play in the backstop negotiations, the respective proposals tabled by the EU and UK Government, as well as the implications of no deal for the border and the possibility of extending the transition/implementation period. The Committee is also expected to focus on the wider context of the backstop negotiations, including the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, and the continued suspension of the Northern Ireland Executive. Following this, the Committee will hear from representatives of industries operating on both sides of the border, such as food and drink, retail and manufacturing. There will be a focus on what the impact of the various backstop proposals would be on trade between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, as well as trade with the EU.

Witnesses  

Wednesday 24 October, Boothroyd Room, Portcullis House  

From 09.15am

• Dr Katy Hayward, Reader in Sociology, Queen's University Belfast
• Dr David Shiels, Policy Analyst, Open Europe

From 10.15am

• Declan Billington, Vice Chair, Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association
• Aodhan Connolly, Director, Northern Ireland Retail Consortium
• Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive, Manufacturing NI
• Seamus Leheny, Policy Manager, Freight Transport Association

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

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