Brexit Red Tape Sparks Recriminations for Northern Ireland's Arlene Foster

Strategic Insights -

Arlene Foster, the leader of Northern Ireland's pro-British Democratic Unionists, is facing intense pressure from her own party and opponents over the chaotic implementation of Brexit checks on the region's trade with Britain. The shortages have led to recriminations from fellow unionists and put Foster's leadership to the test as the region marks the centenary of its establishment and prepares for a high-stakes regional poll.

Key Takeaways:

  • The chaotic implementation of Irish Sea checks has highlighted the difficulties of the Brexit protocol, which has left Northern Ireland in the EU's trade and customs regime.
  • Arlene Foster, the leader of the pro-British Democratic Unionists, has faced criticism from her own party and opponents over her handling of the protocol.
  • The DUP has accused Foster of failing to ensure Northern Ireland left the EU on the same terms as the rest of the UK.
  • The protocol is similar to the "backstop" opposed by the DUP in the past, which has led to accusations that Foster's party foisted the protocol on the region.
  • The DUP is split between hardline Brexiter MPs and the more pragmatic wing led by Foster, leading to internal tensions and allegations of mixed messages.
  • Foster's leadership is under threat, according to some close observers, who question whether she can put Brexit strife behind her by making the most of the protocol.

Statistics:

  • The shortages have affected the availability of food supplies in Northern Ireland, with some supermarkets reporting empty shelves.
  • The DUP voted against the Brexit trade deal in the Commons, despite Foster's initial support for the agreement.
  • 56% of Northern Ireland voters chose to remain in the EU in the 2016 Brexit referendum.
  • The DUP has split between hardline Brexiter MPs and the more pragmatic wing led by Foster.

Sources:

  • "?There is no doubt there has been a massive strategic failure by the so-called leaders of unionism, the DUP," said Steve Aiken, head of the rival Ulster Unionist party, which opposes Brexit." - The Times
  • "History will not show [the DUP] in a good light on a whole variety of issues. This is probably one of the worst." - Steve Aiken, head of the Ulster Unionist party
  • "The problem for the DUP from the top down is that they told everybody that they were teaching manners to the Conservative party and that they were extremely influential." - Steve Aiken, head of the Ulster Unionist party
  • "Arlene is not in control of her party." - Steve Aiken, head of the Ulster Unionist party