The Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement: Explained

The Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement, also known as the Northern Ireland Protocol, is a part of the Brexit deal that outlines how the United Kingdom and the European Union will manage the border between Northern Ireland (part of the UK) and the Republic of Ireland (a member of the EU).

Why is the Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement necessary?

The border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland has been an issue for decades. The Good Friday Agreement, signed in 1998, brought peace to the region, in part by eliminating a hard border between the two regions. This meant that people, goods, and services could move freely between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

However, with the UK leaving the EU, a hard border became necessary as the Republic of Ireland remained an EU member. This would have had significant economic and political impacts. The Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement is designed to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland and protect the Good Friday Agreement.

What does the agreement do?

The Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement essentially keeps Northern Ireland in the EU`s single market for goods to avoid the need for customs checks between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The agreement also requires Northern Ireland to follow some EU rules and standards, even though it remains part of the UK.

Under the agreement, Northern Ireland remains in the UK`s customs territory but is also subject to some EU customs rules. This allows goods to move between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland without the need for customs checks.

The agreement also gives Northern Irish businesses access to the EU`s single market for goods, which is a significant advantage for those Northern Irish companies that rely on exports to the EU.

What are the issues surrounding the Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement?

While the Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement has helped to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland, it has not been without controversy. Some groups in Northern Ireland have opposed the agreement, arguing that it undermines Northern Ireland`s position as part of the UK.

Additionally, the agreement has caused some disruption to trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, with some Northern Irish businesses experiencing difficulties in trading with suppliers and customers in other parts of the UK.

In conclusion, the Irish Sea Border Withdrawal Agreement is a vital part of the Brexit deal that aims to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland and protect the Good Friday Agreement. While it has its challenges, the agreement helps to preserve the peace and stability of the region, which is essential for the UK, the EU, and, most importantly, the people of Northern Ireland.