Hazzard welcomes deal agreed between EU and British government

The UK and European Union reached a deal on Monday over food, fishing access, defence and UK travellers' access to e-gates. Prime Minister, Sir Kier Starmer, called it a "landmark" deal while EC President von der Leyen called it a "historic moment".

The government says the deal is "good for jobs, good for bills, and good for our borders".

And the deal has been given the thumbs up by Sinn Féin’s South Down MP.

“I welcome the reset of relationships between the EU and British government undoing some of the disastrous impacts of Brexit,” said Mr Hazzard.

“The people of the north were dragged out of Europe against their wishes so any improvements in the relationship between the British government and the EU, particularly in areas such as trade, agri-food, energy, and climate are positive steps,” he added.

"We are concerned by the focus placed on funding increased militarisation rather than on the resolution of conflicts and on peace building."

“The easing of restrictions on businesses in the north is also a welcome development.

“It is important the all-island economy is protected and the unique circumstances of the north remain a central consideration in all decision-making.

“Sinn Féin remains committed to mitigating the disaster that was Brexit, supporting our local economy and ensuring that businesses here can make the most of our unique dual access to both the British and EU markets.”