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Sefcovic told there must be a sustainable solution

Party Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson held virtual discussions with EU Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic this week. It followed new proposals tabled by the EU in relation to the Protocol. Whilst these fell short of what was needed, he stressed that the negotiations must not be a missed opportunity.

Responding to the proposals in detail Sir Jeffrey said that short-term fixes would not solve the problem and that any outcome would be judged against the seven tests outlined in July. At their heart was the removal of the Irish Sea border.

He concluded “We have a window of opportunity to get this right. The prize for doing so will be great for both sides but most of all for the people of Northern Ireland who can break free from the Protocol infecting day to day decisions.”

Also this week

Party Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson conveyed his condolences to the family and friends of Sir David Amess following his brutal murder.

Education Minister Michelle McIlveen launched a NI100 Art Competition for schools across Northern Ireland.

DAERA Minister Edwin Poots said communities in Ards and North Down would benefit from a £900,000 investment from the Rural Devlopment Programme.

Lord Dodds said the Government must eliminate both the trade and constitutional problems of the Protocol.

East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson said Protocol cheerleaders should now support a better deal for Northern Ireland.

South Antrim MLA Pam Cameron highlighted the need for greater access to anti-fibrotic drugs.

Mid Ulster MLA Keith Buchanan urged anyone with information on the death of a lady in Knockloughrim to speak to the police.

Upper Bann MLA Jonathan Buckley welcomed the Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon’s retreat on rural planning policy.