Sunak Brexit deal negotiations in 'final stages' with DUP, says Northern Ireland secretary

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Rishi Sunak's government is in the "final stages" of negotiations aimed at persuading the DUP of the merits of the post-Brexit deal with the EU to ease trade barriers in Northern Ireland.

Crucial elements of the Windsor Framework Agreement between the Prime Minister and Brussels come into force on Sunday, including the green and red lane system for the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland Chris Heaton -Harris tried to convince the Unionist Party – which boycotted the Northern Ireland institution due to its opposition to Brexit protocol that dictates the province's trade rules.

The minister said it was "in the final stages." of a period of constructive engagement with the DUP" - urging the Unionist Party to accept change to restore power sharing with Sinn Fein at Stormont.

Mr Heaton-Harris also said that the government was preparing "a comprehensive package of proposals" - but the Sunak government made clear there would be no return to negotiations with the EU.

In theNews Letteron Saturday, Mr Heaton Harris said the Government had engaged "extensively" with the DUP over the summer and that the party's proposals had improved the greenway system.

“We are also in the final stages of a period of constructive engagement with the DUP. DUP. We are in the process of putting together a comprehensive set of proposals which we hope will address their concerns.”

“I am convinced that their real desire is to focus on concrete improvements and create a situation that will allow the executive to be restored,” he added. “I firmly believe that the restoration of institutions is a good thing for Northern Ireland and for the future of the Union. »

Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris

(PA Wire)

He said Northern Ireland needs a restored devolved government to tackle NHS waiting lists, childcare, environmental pollution, teacher pay, nurses and “hard-working civil servants”.

He called on the DUP to seize the opportunity “to move...