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. 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 29 March, when the UK is due to leave the EU.
