'Disastrous' Brexit Deadlock Blamed For Insurance 'Green Cards'

Political representatives in Northern Ireland have expressed outrage at the potential implications of a no-deal Brexit on cross-border travel, and laid the blame at the door of politicians in Westminster.

The Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland issued thousands of applications to insurers in Ireland, as it was revealed that motorists wishing to drive across the border would need to purchase a 'green card' if the UK leaves the EU without reaching an agreement on the terms of its exit.

The so-called green cards would have to be purchased, and would act as a proof to law enforcement officials of the minimum insurance cover required in the region, which would be necessary for travel between EU and non-EU countries.

SDLP Deputy Leader Nichola Mallon said the news is a further reminder of why the backstop, which would protect against a hard border and mitigate the need for green cards, must be secured amid the ongoing political chaos.

"The possibility that Irish motorists may have to travel with a 'green card' if entering Northern Ireland is a stark indication of how serious and regressive a no-deal Brexit will be for people here," the MLA for north Belfast commented.

"Thousands of people commute across the border daily to live, work and study. To stifle this free movement by asking motorists to carry documentation to do so is an affront to the Good Friday Agreement.

"This news of 'green cards' being issued is yet another reminder of why we need a Backstop; in the ever increasing likelihood that we crash out of the EU, the people across this island cannot be left to the disruption and devastation of a decision that we never consented to."

Meanwhile, Sinn Fein MEP Martina Anderson said the "bad news" for motorists was the responsibility of those who support a Tory Brexit.

"There could be a charge for this which follows on from the admission by the British government that an International Driving Permit, for which a fee would also be charged, will be required if there is no Brexit deal. 

"All of this shows once again that the architects and supporters of the Tory Brexit do not know or care about the realities for people living in border areas and all those who cross the border on a daily basis to work, study and socialise. 

"This reinforces the need for the backstop to be maintained and for the Irish government and EU27 to stand firm and ensure we are not driven over a cliff edge by Tory Brexiteers and their allies," Ms Anderson concluded. 



(JG/CM)