Brexit regrets for Ireland’s favourite Frenchman Michel Barnier

Michel Barnier, often referred to as Ireland's favourite Frenchman, has returned to Dublin this week for a series of political meetings with key Irish officials, including Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee. The visit comes just months after Barnier concluded his brief tenure as France’s prime minister, which lasted from September to December 2024. Now a member of the French parliament, Barnier was a guest at the Bastille Day reception hosted by French Ambassador Céline Place, where he received warm welcomes from attendees and was praised by Martin as a great friend of Ireland. Barnier served as the European Union’s chief negotiator during the Brexit process, a role that saw him resist British efforts to isolate Ireland and address concerns over the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. His work ensured that Ireland’s critical issues were prioritised, and he played a pivotal role in securing a deal that preserved the integrity of the EU’s single market while protecting Ireland’s interests. This outcome split British Brexiteers, who had hoped for a more radical departure from the EU, and led to significant political turmoil within the UK, resulting in the loss of five prime ministers since the 2016 referendum. During his time as Brexit negotiator, Barnier was instrumental in maintaining unity among EU member states, particularly in response to the challenges posed by Brexit. He consistently emphasized the principle of solidarity, arguing that any issue affecting one member state, particularly Ireland, was a concern for all. This approach helped prevent the UK from leveraging divisions among EU countries to achieve its goals. At the Bastille Day reception, Barnier reflected on the past decade since the Brexit referendum, acknowledging the ongoing impact of the decision on the UK. He expressed little optimism about the long-term effects of Brexit, stating that the UK is now isolated internationally and that the EU is collectively weaker without a major power like the UK. He noted that the UK’s absence from the UN Security Council and its dynamic trade policies has left a void that affects global stability. In recent weeks, Barnier visited the UK to participate in events marking the 10th anniversary of Brexit. During this trip, he met privately with former Prime Minister Theresa May, expressing deep respect for her leadership during the turbulent years of negotiation. Despite their differences, Barnier acknowledged that the UK had underestimated the complexities of leaving the EU and had not adequately prepared for the consequences. Now 75 years old, Barnier remains actively engaged in politics and is deeply concerned about the upcoming French presidential election. He voiced particular worry about the possibility of a victory for Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally party. Barnier described the current political climate in France as extremely serious, noting the growing polarization between the far right and far left, along with the perceived weakness of centrist parties. He warned that such a scenario could lead to a second-round runoff in the presidential race, further complicating France’s political landscape. Barnier’s legacy in Ireland is marked by his unwavering support for the country’s position during the Brexit negotiations. His efforts contributed significantly to the high levels of public approval for the EU in Ireland, which remain above 80 percent. While he modestly downplays his personal contribution, his influence is evident in the enduring trust between Ireland and the EU. As he continues to play a role in shaping Europe’s future, Barnier’s focus remains on ensuring that the lessons of Brexit are not forgotten and that the EU remains united against internal and external threats.