On my first day as Leader I set out my vision to build a better Northern Ireland, not just for those who share my unionism, but for all our people. Fundamental to building that better Northern Ireland is the removal of the Irish Sea border and its impact on our trading and constitutional position.
One month ago I outlined the steps we would take and a timetable to see these issues resolved. That timeframe was one of weeks rather than months or years. It included immediate withdrawal from the Strand Two structures relating to north south arrangements. We also reserved the right to make an assessment within those weeks whether there was a need for an Assembly election to refresh our mandate and let the public have their say.
The last number of weeks have sent a clear message to the European Union that if you really believe in stability and protecting the progress made in Northern Ireland then you need to think again. A united and coherent unionist voice has brought pressure to bear. Minds are now focused in both London and Brussels. We achieved this by working together.
Lord Frost’s words were good but we need action. If the EU does not step up and restore Northern Ireland's place within the UK internal market then the United Kingdom must take unilateral action to do just that. That too was the position echoed by the Prime Minister when I met him on Monday.
On Tuesday I had a constructive meeting with the EU Ambassador to the UK and over the last few days the route map for progress has emerged. The EU will bring forward fresh proposals within the coming days.
We have 'broken through' and the Protocol has been reopened. Whilst EU proposals will undoubtedly fall short of what is required, they mark the beginning of a period of what have been described as "intensive negotiations". It is not the final destination, but it is still a far cry from Brussels' previous stance of no renegotiation and the demands for "rigorous implementation" from some local Protocol cheerleaders.
I previously set out 7 tests by which any new arrangements must be judged. Fundamentally however, the EU must respect Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom and within the UK internal market. There are practical solutions out there which facilitate the free flow of goods within the United Kingdom whilst also protecting the integrity of the EU Single Market.
Where we stand today is still some way from a successful outcome but progress has been made over the course of the last 100 days. As DUP Leader I will not be found wanting in giving positive leadership and facilitating progress, but both London and Brussels are also well aware that I will not resile from the actions I set out just a month ago if solutions are not found.
