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« on: October 25, 2019, 12:42:55 PM »
In spite of the mini-euphoria and popularity-boost (because a border was to be avoided) that has occurred since the Taoiseach and BJ came up with a compromise deal, it may come to be seen in time that it wasn't really Varadkar's finest hour. In reality, it is not a good deal for Ireland as it could still result in a No-Deal default at the end of 2020. The UK has to make up it's mind by mid-next year if they want to extend the transition period, even though Phil Hogan may not even have fully selected his negotiating team by then.
Though a huge gamble to take, it may have paid off if Varadkar/EU let the October 31st date expire without a deal, as the Benn Act would kick in and BJ would be bound to it, no matter what he said to the contrary. This would surely have brought a 2nd ref. closer than where it is now.