Dec 11 - GSD: Beneficial Transitional Arrangements “Must Extend To Gibraltar”
The GSD has reacted to the announcement of a political agreement between the EU and UK allowing the parties to now enter into a second phase of discussions as part of the process leading to Britain’s departure of the EU.
The GSD says that, while the political agreement itself does not explicitly mention Gibraltar, “it is clear that under Article 5 amendments could, in future, make the position clear for Gibraltar.”
A statement continued: “The GSD are firmly of the view that any beneficial transitional arrangements that are entered into must extend to Gibraltar. Indeed the arrangements that in principle could be entered into for Northern Ireland show that it is possible to have appropriate arrangements in respect of special circumstances. These can only be entered into in respect of Gibraltar with the consent of the people of Gibraltar and be unconditional in nature. They cannot be conditional on Gibraltar giving concessions to Spain. As the EU and UK now enter into this second phase of discussions it is important that the Gibraltar Government is not just consulted but fully participates in those discussions where it is relevant to Gibraltar.”
GSD Leader Keith Azopardi said: “Navigating the consequences of BREXIT is the most important current challenge for Gibraltar. The Government needs to be alive to the dangers in these talks and ensure it is kept fully abreast of developments. It is also important it is guaranteed a seat at the table at technical and political talks involving Gibraltar. We need to be careful that any arrangements that are discussed work for Gibraltar and guarantee freedom of movement and our fundamental rights. We are after all UK citizens for the purposes of the EU Treaties.
“Additionally and because of the special nature of the challenge this is an issue on which Government and Opposition should work together in the interests of Gibraltar. That is why I have today written to the Chief Minister to ask him to brief the GSD (on a confidential basis if necessary) on the current state of discussions and to offer our continued cross-party support and participation in discussions with the UK and EU as we go forward.”
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