Michel Barnier should be invited to address the Seanad – Richmond

“The European Commission’s Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, should be invited to address the Seanad”, says Fine Gael Senator and Seanad spokesman on EU Affairs, Neale Richmond. Senator Richmond was speaking during the Seanad Order of Business today (Thursday), in the wake of a visit to Brussels by the Oireachtas EU Affairs Committee, where they met Mr Barnier.

“At a meeting I attended yesterday in Brussels, Mr Barnier informed members of the Oireachtas EU Affairs Committee that he intended to visit Dublin again to discuss the upcoming Brexit negotiations. He also stated that he was open to addressing the Seanad.

“So far, the Seanad has been addressed on this matter by one foreign dignitary, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. I believe we should extend this honour to another highly important individual, Michel Barnier.

“Brexit is the greatest challenge to ever face this country. It is vital therefore that we use every opportunity possible to highlight the challenges for Ireland and our plans to overcome these challenges.

“I believe that a constructive engagement with Mr Barnier by Senators on his next visit to Dublin will go a long way to influencing the emphasis of the upcoming Brexit negotiations.

“I hope the Seanad Leader takes my suggestion into consideration and extends the invitation to Mr Barnier at the earliest possible opportunity.”