A post Brexit trade deal has been agreed between the UK and the EU.
There was speculation an announcement would be made early this morning after talks continued into the night.
The UK is free to pursue other trade opportunities with other nations - including the United States.
#Brexit deal is very welcome after four long years of negotiations. Thanks to @vonderleyen & @MichelBarnier & team. While we will miss the UK from the European Union, the fact that a deal is now in place means we can focus on how we manage good relationship in the years ahead.
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) December 24, 2020
"We Are Long Standing Allies" - EU and UK
The President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen said it's "time to turn the page" at a news conference following the announcement.
"The United Kingdom is a third country, but it remains a trusted partner," she said.
"We are long standing allies, we share the same values and interests."
Deal Done! 4yrs work to protect #Ireland & #EU through #Brexit. Certainty at last:
☑️ No return to hard border
☑️ The GFA & Peace Process is protected
☑️ The single market is safe & #Irelands place in it
☑️ No tariffs or quotas on trade
☑️ A fresh start for U.K. relations
🇮🇪🇪🇺🇬🇧— Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) December 24, 2020
Government Ministers Welcome Deal
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said in a tweet that a deal is "welcome" after "four long years" of talks.
He's also thanked the EU negotiating team, lead by Michel Barnier.
Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney called it "certainty at last" in his post.
