A chara, – Lord Kilclooney's dissatisfaction with the suggestion that border controls may be reintroduced in the case of a British exit from the EU is evident (October 1st). However, his assertion that, in the case of a Brexit, it would be both "logical" and in the "best interests" of trade in Ireland to follow suit is naive, to say the least.
Ireland may have followed Britain in entering the EEC, but we stood to gain significantly more from becoming a member of the community than merely a continuation of one particular trading relationship.
In the past four decades, our export markets in other European countries have greatly expanded, and the successes (or failures) of our economy have not been closely linked to British political decision-making for some time. While Britain is, of course, a crucial trading partner for us, we are also one of Britain’s largest export markets, so regardless of what happens, it is very unlikely that trade between our states will falter.
If the UK leaves the EU, however, many of the multinational corporations that currently have their EU headquarters in London will need to find a new, native English-speaking base for their operations. May our corporation tax rate be a welcome mat for these new arrivals.
I’m sure it’s comforting for the old guard to think that, like a bewildered child, we will simply trail out the door behind the bigger kids.
How good it is that times change. – Is mise,
CAITRIONA BURKE
Dublin 16.
A chara, – A Brexit need not spell disaster for Ireland. The UK, with or without Scotland, would surely continue its membership of the European Economic Area, as do Norway and Iceland. She can live with EU rules without a role in forming them.
Our common travel area predates the EU so don’t expect trade barriers or passport controls at Dundalk or Lifford.
The UK will soon return to Europe, as geography dictates. – Is mise,
DÁITHÍ
Mac CÁRTHAIGH, BL
Baile Átha Cliath 7.