Barnier tells Ireland he'll work to avoid hard border post-Brexit

The EU's chief Brexit negotiator has reassured Ireland that he will work to avoid a hard border in the wake of Britain's exit.

Addressing both houses of the Irish parliament, Michel Barnier said: "I am fully aware that some member states will be more affected than others.

"I want to reassure the Irish people: in this negotiation Ireland's interest will be the Union's interest ... Brexit changes the external borders of the EU.

"I will work with you to avoid a hard border."

In addressing both houses of parliament, Mr Barnier was given a privilege normally only afforded to visiting heads of state and prime ministers, joining luminaries like Nelson Mandela and Bill Clinton.

Mr Barnier said there was no reason why the EU cannot have a "strong relationship" with the UK after it leaves, but Brexit will inevitably have consequences.

Protecting Ireland's interests as part of the EU would be an important part of the exit talks, with efforts to protect the peace process forming a key element alongside avoiding a hard border.