CIVIC society and business figures have urged Brussels and the British government to resolve issues around the Irish Sea border in ways that promote opportunities for Northern Ireland and uphold the Good Friday Agreement.
In an open letter, drafted by peace building charity Co-operation Ireland and the University of Liverpool's Institute of Irish Studies, more than 50 leaders and organisations are urging the EU and UK to continue seeking solutions through ongoing discussions ahead of the transition period ending in October.
The letter calls for "proportionate, bespoke and reasonable solutions" that will deliver stability, prosperity and opportunity for Northern Ireland, and urges the need for "structured engagement" with civic society in the time ahead.
Co-operation Ireland CEO Peter Sheridan said the peace process represented "one of the brightest chapters in our history" and that it was achieved through "common purpose for the common good, with positive negotiations dedicated to resolving the deepest divisions".
He said the British government and the EU "were key parties to that constructive agenda".
“Those involved in ongoing discussions should recognise that peace and stability must remain the first priority," Mr Sheridan said.
"This focus will lead to better outcomes and opportunities, help to ensure political stability, and foster more consensus around our shared future as we navigate change."
Director of the Institute for Irish Studies Professor Peter Shirlow said civic society and the business community had many views but were "speaking with one voice in this appeal".
He said London and Brussels needed to acknowledge that people in the north "do not want barriers in any direction" and stability was needed to build upon opportunities created by the protocol.
“Maintaining and delivering the Good Friday Agreement can never be rhetorical – ongoing discussions between the UK and EU have to achieve a balance similar to that within the Good Friday Agreement that upholds parity of esteem and mutual respect, and the totality of relationships," he said.
"Solutions should ensure minimal disruption to trade between these islands. Northern Ireland’s peace and prosperity should be primary incentives in EU and UK discussions. The engagement of civic voices is now critical to achieving objectivity and the removal of economic and political instability."
On the back of the open letter, Co-operation Ireland and the Institute of Irish Studies plan to organise a series of events to "gather insights, ideas and reaction to upcoming discussions".
