SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has spoken to An Taoiseach about the need to protect the interests of people in the North who voted to remain in the European Union.
The Foyle MLA spoke to Enda Kenny ahead of a meeting with European leaders and Heads of State in Paris.
Mr Eastwood said: “We discussed the imperative need to ensure that there are no new borders across this island.
“The threat to common travel and the suggestion of customs check points posed by the referendum result in England would be detrimental to economic and social life in Ireland.
“I urged the Taoiseach to forge ahead with plans for an all-party forum to prepare for the real challenges facing this island as a result of British withdrawal from Europe.
“No party, much less those who have opposed collaboration across the island for decades, should be allowed to hold a veto over political cooperation.
“The Irish Government is in a critical position to influence the shape of Europe as negotiations get underway.
“That influence must be used to ensure that the democratically stated will of people in the North is respected and reflected in the outcome.”
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