Brexit negotiator does not understand unionist culture, DUP leader claims

DUP leader Arlene Foster has claimed chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier does not understand unionist culture in Northern Ireland.

Mr Barnier is in the Irish border towns of Dundalk and Newry on Monday before visiting Londonderry on Tuesday.

Mrs Foster said: "I don't think he does understand the wider unionist culture of Northern Ireland.

"He's hearing a very strong message from the Republic of Ireland's government, he's hearing it from Sinn Fein.

"We have tried to get him to understand the unionist position for the people of Northern Ireland, but he hasn't really responded to that, and I'm disappointed about that.

"I'm also disappointed that he will hear anti-Brexit voices tomorrow, he won't hear any pro-Brexit voices tomorrow because he is being taken around by Sinn Fein MPs."