He was speaking after the Secretary of State, Hilary Benn MP, triggered the process to allow the Stormont Assembly to vote on post-Brexit trading arrangements.
 
He said, “Continuation of the Windsor Framework is essential to uphold our dual market access, protect the Good Friday Agreement and respect international agreements.
 
“Alliance opposed Brexit, but thanks to the hard Brexit pursued by the Conservative Government and DUP, special arrangements are necessary to address the particular challenges posed to Northern Ireland. The overwhelming majority of people and businesses here want to see pragmatic solutions, not further uncertainty and instability.
 
“Alliance will continue to work constructively to maximise the benefits and reap the rewards and opportunities presented by the Windsor Framework, including through pursuing a comprehensive UK-EU Veterinary and SPS Agreement.