The Norway++ Brexit Solution: Saving Ireland from Division and Kent from a Lorry Park

As the Brexit negotiations continue to unfold, one potential solution that has been proposed is the Norway++ model. This model, which is based on Norway’s relationship with the European Union (EU), could potentially save Ireland from division and prevent Kent from becoming a lorry park. But what exactly is the Norway++ model, and how could it address these issues? Let’s delve into this topic to provide a clearer understanding.

Understanding the Norway++ Model

The Norway++ model refers to a Brexit solution where the UK would remain in the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Customs Union. This would mean that the UK would still have access to the single market, but would also have to accept the four freedoms of the EU: the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.

How the Norway++ Model Could Save Ireland from Division

One of the major sticking points in the Brexit negotiations has been the issue of the Irish border. The UK’s decision to leave the EU threatens to create a hard border between Northern Ireland (which is part of the UK) and the Republic of Ireland (which is an EU member). This could potentially reignite tensions and lead to division in Ireland.

However, the Norway++ model could potentially solve this issue. By remaining in the EEA and the Customs Union, there would be no need for a hard border as goods could move freely between the UK and the EU. This would effectively eliminate the risk of division in Ireland.

Preventing Kent from Becoming a Lorry Park

Another concern with Brexit is the potential impact on the county of Kent. As the gateway to Europe, Kent is a major hub for lorries transporting goods between the UK and the EU. If a hard Brexit were to occur, it could lead to significant delays at the border, effectively turning Kent into a lorry park.

Again, the Norway++ model could provide a solution. By remaining in the Customs Union, goods could continue to move freely between the UK and the EU, preventing the need for extensive checks at the border. This would help to keep traffic flowing and prevent Kent from becoming a lorry park.

Conclusion

While the Norway++ model is not without its critics, it does offer potential solutions to some of the major issues associated with Brexit. By allowing for the free movement of goods, it could prevent a hard border in Ireland and keep traffic flowing in Kent. However, it would also require the UK to accept the free movement of people, which has been a contentious issue in the Brexit debate. As such, whether the Norway++ model is ultimately adopted remains to be seen.