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Brexit Border Negotiations Stall

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/20/brexit-border-negotiations-stall.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 7:38 GMT by RTE Online
      Locales: None explicitly mentioned, likely Republic of Ireland, None explicitly mentioned, IRELAND

Dublin, Ireland - February 20th, 2026 - Today's edition of "Today with David McCullagh" on RTE Radio 1 offered a comprehensive snapshot of the issues currently shaping Ireland, from the lingering effects of Brexit to proposed changes in education and a cautious assessment of the national economy. The programme also highlighted the immediate challenges facing the agricultural sector and looked ahead to upcoming St. Patrick's Day festivities.

Brexit Border Negotiations Remain a Thorny Issue

The shadow of Brexit continues to loom large over the Irish landscape, with today's broadcast dedicating significant time to ongoing border negotiations. Despite years of discussion, complexities surrounding trade between Northern Ireland and the Republic remain a persistent source of friction. David McCullagh explored the practical difficulties experienced by businesses and communities reliant on frictionless cross-border trade. Reports indicate that while the Windsor Framework has alleviated some of the initial disruption, significant bureaucratic hurdles and increased costs continue to hamper economic activity, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Concerns were voiced regarding the implementation of customs checks and the digital reporting requirements, which many businesses find overly complex and burdensome. The programme suggested that further refinement of the framework and increased flexibility in its application are crucial to prevent long-term economic damage and maintain stability on the island.

Education Minister Outlines Ambitious Curriculum Changes

A central focus of the programme was an in-depth interview with the Minister for Education, [Minister's Name], regarding proposed alterations to the national curriculum. The Minister detailed a vision for a more future-focused educational system, emphasizing the importance of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in preparing students for the demands of the 21st-century workforce. However, the Minister also stressed the vital role of the arts in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural understanding. The proposed curriculum changes aim to integrate these disciplines more effectively, moving away from a solely exam-oriented approach to one that prioritizes holistic development and lifelong learning. A key component of the plan involves increased investment in teacher training and resources, particularly in areas like coding, data analytics, and digital literacy. The Minister addressed concerns raised by educators regarding the feasibility of implementing these changes within existing budgetary constraints, outlining plans for phased implementation and ongoing evaluation.

Economic Data Paints a Mixed Picture

The Central Bank of Ireland released its latest economic data earlier today, providing a nuanced picture of the country's economic health. Chief Economist [Economist's Name] joined McCullagh to dissect the figures. While employment rates remain relatively strong, inflation continues to be a concern, albeit at a slightly reduced rate compared to previous quarters. The economist pointed to global economic headwinds, including geopolitical instability and rising energy prices, as factors contributing to the persistent inflationary pressures. Despite these challenges, projections indicate modest economic growth for the year ahead, driven primarily by the services sector and foreign direct investment. However, the economist cautioned that a significant downturn in the global economy could jeopardize these projections. The conversation touched on the impact of high interest rates on mortgage holders and businesses, and the potential need for targeted government intervention to mitigate the risks.

Agricultural Sector Reeling from Severe Weather

The programme devoted a segment to the devastating impact of recent severe weather events on the Irish agricultural sector. Farmer [Farmer's Name] from County [County Name] shared a harrowing account of the challenges faced by farmers in the wake of prolonged rainfall and flooding. Crop losses and livestock difficulties are widespread, threatening livelihoods and potentially leading to food shortages. The government has announced a package of support measures for affected farmers, including financial aid and emergency funding for infrastructure repairs. However, many farmers argue that these measures are insufficient to address the scale of the damage. The discussion highlighted the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and the need for long-term investment in climate resilience measures for the agricultural sector.

St. Patrick's Day Preparations Underway The broadcast concluded with a preview of the upcoming St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Organizers are finalizing logistics for the parade and associated events, with a focus on ensuring public safety and security. Efforts are underway to promote Irish culture and heritage globally, with events planned in major cities around the world. The programme emphasized the importance of St. Patrick's Day as a symbol of national identity and a celebration of Irish creativity and resilience.