BRITISH Prime Minister Theresa May has signed the letter that will formally begin the UK’s departure from the European Union.
Giving official notice under Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, it will be delivered to European Council president Donald Tusk later.
In a statement in the Commons, the Tory leader will then tell MPs this marks “the moment for the country to come together”.
It follows June’s referendum which resulted in a vote to leave the EU.
Mrs May’s letter will be delivered at 12.20 pm today, Wednesday, March 29, by the British ambassador to the EU, Sir Tim Barrow.
The process to leave the EU could take up to two years to complete.
The EU wants a £50 billion ‘divorce’ cheque from from Britain to Brexit.
The remaining 27 member states will set the agenda for trade with Britain.
People in the North of Ireland voted to remain within the EU as did the people of Scotland.
Sinn Féin Leader in the north Michelle O’Neill MLA says her party will be stepping up its efforts to secure designated special status within the EU.
Michelle O’Neill said: “Brexit would be a disaster for Ireland, socially, politically and economically.
“It is unacceptable that Tories who have no mandate in Ireland can impose Brexit and a border against our will.
“The people of the North voted against Brexit in a democratic poll.
“Now that the clock is ticking on Brexit following the triggering of Article 50 by Tory Prime Minster Theresa May there is a real prospect of an EU border in Ireland.
“An alternative to Brexit is possible and achievable.
“Sinn Féin has put forward a case for designated special status within the EU and Sinn Féin has been on a diplomatic offensive across Europe building support for that.
“There is an onus now on the Irish government to act in the best interests of all Irish citizens and enter the upcoming negotiations to secure designated special status for the north.”
Tags:
