No Border Between Belfast and Dublin: Understanding the Post-Brexit Reality

Introduction

The question of whether there is a border between Belfast and Dublin has become a point of contention, particularly in the aftermath of Brexit. This article aims to clarify the current status and future implications of the border between the Northern Ireland portion of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland within the European Union.

EU-Northern Ireland Protocol and the Belfast-Dublin Border

The EU-Northern Ireland Protocol, a crucial component of the Brexit deal, is often misunderstood. It is frequently blamed for the complexities surrounding the border between Belfast and Dublin. However, this protocol primarily governs the movement of goods between Northern Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom, aligning Northern Ireland with EU rules to avoid a hard border with the Republic of Ireland.

The protocol necessitates some form of border inspection for goods entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain, as Northern Ireland remains part of the UK customs territory. Meanwhile, the Irish border remains mostly seamless, as it does not require passport control or customs checks between the 26 counties of Ireland and the 6 counties of Northern Ireland.

Borderless Movement Within Ireland

Despite the protocol, the border between Belfast and Dublin remains effectively non-existent for everyday travel and movement. There is no physical border control for people traveling between these two major cities. Passengers can easily drive or take a train from Belfast to Dublin, and vice versa, without any hindrance.

For example, one can drive directly from Belfast to Dublin or take a train from Belfast City Station to Dublin Connolly Station, arriving typically within a few hours. This ease of movement reflects the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region, as symbolized by the absence of physical barriers.

Historical Context and the Good Friday Agreement

The absence of a physical border between Belfast and Dublin has been evident since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, which ended the 'Troubles' and removed British border posts. The agreement has been a cornerstone in maintaining peace and fostering cooperation between the North and South of Ireland.

While the border's status is understood to be a temporary measure for a transition period, there are concerns that it could re-emerge if the political climate changes or if the protocol is not adequately addressed. However, the majority of policymakers and citizens in Ireland and the UK are committed to maintaining the existing status quo for the sake of regional peace and prosperity.

Conclusion

As the UK and the EU navigate the complexities of Brexit, the border between Belfast and Dublin remains a testament to the commitment to peace and the seamless movement of people and goods. The absence of a border control point between these two major cities highlights the importance of the EU-Northern Ireland Protocol in maintaining the delicate balance of the region.

The future of the border between Belfast and Dublin will depend on how the EU-Northern Ireland Protocol is implemented and whether the UK is able to find a solution that mitigates the potential for a hard border. For now, however, travelers can enjoy the freedom to move between Belfast and Dublin without any hindrance.