‘Stop moaning!’ Northern Ireland WILL leave the EU, vows First Minister Arlene Foster

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Northern Ireland will leave the EU, First Minister Arlene Foster vowed today

Speaking at the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP)’s conference, Arlene Foster said it was time to focus on the opportunities rather than the challenges. 

She slated those who wanted a second referendum and said Brexit would actually provide the “biggest economic opportunity” in the country’s history. 

Ms Foster said this afternoon: “I’m proud of the part out party played in the Brexit campaign, not just in Northern Ireland but right across the United Kingdom.

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“We stood shoulder to shoulder with those who wanted the British people to take back control of their futures.”

She said she had “no time” for those calling for a second referendum on leaving the 28-country bloc, flatly stating: “That debate is over.

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Ms Foster said Brexit presented a huge opportunity to the country

“Brexit means Brexit. The whole of the United Kingdom is leaving the European Union.”

Ms Foster said there were numerous benefits to leaving the bloc, including a huge economic opportunity. 

She said: “Rather than talking up the challenges we should be looking towards the opportunities. 

“Brexit represents the biggest economic opportunity for this country in decades. But the only way we can ensure Northern Ireland’s interest are best served is by staying united and determined. 

“The economic and social benefits for NI within the UK are far more important than our relationship with the EU.”

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The vast majority of Northern Irish voters wanted to remain in the EU

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Arlene Foster and Martin McGuinness meeting Theresa May to discuss Brexit in Northern Ireland

Ms Foster and Martin McGuinness, the Deputy First Minister, visited Theresa May earlier this month to discuss the impact of Brexit on Northern Ireland. 

A particular concern is the fate of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which will become the UK’s only border with the EU. 

Ms Foster dismissed this worry today and accused the Republic of creating a panic in an attempt to “poach” investors from the North.

She said: “The only place a hard border does exist is in the mind of the Irish government.”