SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood MLA has said Ireland’s interest, North and South, remains as part of the European Union.
The Foyle MLA was speaking after voters backed the Brexit campaign to ‘Leave’ the European Union.
It could now take two years for Britain to negotiate its way out of the EU, sparking fears of a trade deficit, job losses, mounting inflation and a hike in mortgage interest rates.
There are also fears that customs posts will now be erected to stop migration from the Republic and across the border into the North, causing long tail backs for motorists passing over the land frontier.
Mr Eastwood said: “Northern Ireland voted to remain as part of the European Union. Ireland’s rightful place is at the heart of Europe.
“That was true yesterday, it remains true today.
“This new reality requires careful and considered thought.
“There can be no return to a physical border across this island. There must remain freedom of movement for people, goods and services across Ireland.
“The negotiation to come must ensure that any border is only operational around the island of Ireland and not across it.
“This result must now ensure the full and fast integration of economic interests across Ireland.
“I will now be speaking with the leaders of Dublin parties to advance this work.
“I will open discussions on how we can defend the interests of the people of Ireland, North and South.
“As a continuing member of the European Union, the Irish government wields significant influence that it can exercise during the course of Brexit negotiations.
“The Taoiseach is now the most important person on this island in deciding Ireland’s relationship, North and South, with the European Union.
“His government has huge influence in this upcoming negotiation. He must now be a powerful voice on our behalf.”