Northern Ireland MEP warns that Britain may end up as ‘Roadkill’ if no deal is struck

Member of the European Parliament representing Ireland Brian Hayes has told the UK not to undermine the EU as when Brexit talks begins.

The MEP also noted that the UK will not be penalised in any form for its decision to respect the will of the British people as they leave the EU, but also warned if Brussels is taken for granted by the UK, it will get burnt for such an action.

While making his speech, Mr Hayes said: “If they try to play chicken with the European Union in these negotiations they will end up as roadkill. Greece tried to do this during their bailout talks and they learned their lesson the hard way.

“While the UK does have some cards to play, the EU clearly holds the upper hand in these talks. It is the EU that holds the keys to a transitional deal, single market access, customs union, equivalence and any sort of bespoke deal that the UK wants.

“If the UK wants to play brinkmanship, they will be facing a very stern opponent.”

He also warned the Republic of Ireland to resist the urge to attempt to exploit uncertainty in Britain for their own good. This is because, it appears Ireland has been executing charm attack in Britain as it tries to persuade leaders in the financial sector to make Dublin their next hub.

Mr Hayes said: “It is in the DNA of Irish nationalism to see Britain’s difficulties as Ireland’s opportunities. There are some who cannot avoid the temptation for a little Brit bashing.

“Amidst all this uncertainty, it’s the task of mainstream politicians and mainstream parties to calm things down.”

Mr Hayes added: “The UK must never be regarded as some third country in its new relationship with the EU. It’s not like Brazil or Mexico, its importance to the financing and the economy of Europe must be recognised.

“We have to find a solution that works for the EU and the UK.”

He went further to appeal to both the EU and the UK to exhibit some level of mutual respect and understanding, and also called for an end to nationalism, irrespective of the country involved.

Mr Hayes said: “The great success of the EU has been to keep a lid on the ever present nationalism that has caused such chaos in the first half of the last century.

“The drumbeat of nationalism is once again being heard across the continent.

“The dangers of an awoken nationalism on these islands – be it English, Scottish or Irish nationalism – make the task of business stability and business confidence more difficult. Trade does not grow when countries are putting up barriers.”