Primates warn Brexit could have serious consequences for Ireland

The Church of Ireland’s two most senior bishops have said they are concerned about the possible consequences of a Brexit for Ireland, writes Sarah Mac Donald.

Addressing the Church’s annual synod in Dublin, the Anglican Primate of All Ireland, Archbishop Richard Clarke of Armagh, said an EU exit by Britain would have economic consequences for both Northern Ireland and the Republic. “I see it as having a massive effect … socially, economically and politically,” he said.

In his presidential address, the archbishop warned that Europe faced “new and serious challenges” and that there was the possibility that the EU could  fracture further.  

Referring to the possible implications for cross-border travel within the island of Ireland if Britain left the EU, he asked: “Would I have to produce my passport to visit Drogheda, which is part of Armagh diocese?”

Dr Clarke’s view was echoed by Archbishop Michael Jackson of Dublin, who suggested that there were “tremendous warning lights” in relation to a Brexit. “It is very often when something is gone that you realise that it was quite good,” he commented.  

Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Arlene Foster, who is leader of the Eurosceptic DUP and a member of the Church of Ireland, backs a British withdrawal from the EU.