Opinion

DUP criticism of Michel Barnier is missing the point

There is no denying the pivotal role of Michel Barnier in the crucial negotiations currently taking place on the withdrawal of the UK from the European Union.

As the EU's chief negotiator he is representing the position of 27 countries, including the Republic, and has shown a grasp of detail and a clear-sighted awareness of the complexities surrounding the Irish border that have been lacking in his British counterpart, David Davis.

Unlike Mr Davis, who slipped in for an unannounced visit last week following months of pressure, Mr Barnier has taken a close interest in the border and the concerns of those who live in the region.

The British government - including Brexiteers who failed to comprehend the enormous obstacle that the border would become - is struggling to come up with a workable solution that does not involve remaining in the customs union.

Meanwhile, Mr Barnier is increasing the pressure, urging rapid agreement on the border by June.

Perhaps this increase in pressure is making the DUP jumpy, it would certainly explain the rather unfortunate tone adopted by Arlene Foster when she complained that the chief negotiator did not understand unionist culture.

It is not clear what aspect of unionist culture he has failed to grasp or how effectively the DUP has presented its case to him.

It is also ironic to hear the party accuse him of being aggressive, a charge that could equally be laid at the door of the DUP.

Mr Barnier, who has rejected this criticism, may be rather bemused by the party's stance, lambasting him for his lack of understanding while its MEP misses the chance to meet him during his visit this week.

Diane Dodds insists she meets Mr Barnier regularly in Brussels and he is in no doubt about the views of the DUP.

Rather than not understanding the party's position, it may be that he simply does not agree with it, and why should he?

Indeed, his views are more in tune with the majority in Northern Ireland who voted to remain in the EU and who are understandably worried about what the future holds.