N.I. Protocol and the new UK-EU deal

• Brexit

  A controversial issue particularly in Northern Ireland because of its potential impact on the border between Northern Ireland (part of the UK) and the Republic of Ireland (part of the EU)
• The border has historically been a sensitive issue due to its association with the Troubles, and any changes to it risk disrupting the fragile peace established by the Good Friday Agreement
• Northern Ireland Protocol


  The trading arrangements for Northern Ireland established under Boris Johnson's Brexit deal, which guarantee that Northern Ireland will remain aligned with certain EU rules to avoid a hard border with the Republic of Ireland
• The Northern Ireland Protocol has created problems, particularly for trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, leading to disruptions and tensions
• DUP's unionist ideology


  Fueled their opposition to the Protocol because they see it as creating a regulatory and customs border between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, which undermines their commitment to maintaining the union
• DUP's protest against the Protocol

  1. Legal challenges

  2. Political maneuvers

  3. Public statements condemning the agreement
• New UK-EU deal

  To address some of the concerns raised by the Northern Ireland Protocol and to facilitate trade while maintaining the integrity of the UK's internal market
• New UK-EU deal

  Could aid a return to power-sharing by addressing some of the grievances and tensions surrounding the Protocol, thereby creating a more conducive environment for cooperation between nationalist and unionist parties
• PM Rishi Sunak will likely face difficulties getting the bill through Parliament due to opposition from various quarters, including within his own party
• It is uncertain whether the deal will be endorsed or backed by Northern Ireland's main political parties, as they may have differing views on its implications for the region