"In a no-deal scenario in Ireland, I think it's pretty obvious, you will have a hard border," he said. The Irish Independent branded Schinas's comments a "Brexit backstab," suggesting they were intended "to prepare Dublin for some difficult discussions in the weeks ahead." Schinas softened his remark the following day, saying the EU would do "all it can" to avoid a hard border. They seized on Barnier's comments, saying they proved the backstop was not needed to prevent a hard border. After months of seeming like the consistent and mature voice in Brexit negotiations, Ireland now risks appearing the stubborn obstacle to a smooth Brexit.

Source: Dhaka Tribune January 27, 2019 04:30 UTC