Matthew Lynn

The truth about Ireland’s £600 million Brexit ‘bonanza’

Irish consumers will ultimately pay a price for the tariffs on imported goods (Getty)

Ireland is reaping the benefits of a Brexit bonus to the tune of €700 million (£600 million). It is not hard to understand why hardcore Remainers are gleefully reporting the news that the government in Dublin is collecting huge extra revenues, much of which comes from imposing tariffs on British goods.

What is being reported as a ‘Brexit bonanza’ for the Irish isn’t quite what it seems

‘The level of customs duties has effectively doubled in recent years compared to the previous decade, reflecting the transformation of Great Britain into a third country in 2021,’ says the Irish Revenue Commissioners. British companies suffer, and a foreign government makes lots of extra money; no wonder some of Brexit’s critics are saying: I told you so.

But hold on. In fact, what is being reported by the Guardian as a ‘Brexit bonanza’ for the Irish isn’t quite what it seems – and it is Irish consumers who will pay the price. What

Get Britain's best politics newsletters

Register to get The Spectator's insight and opinion straight to your inbox. You can then read two free articles each week.

Already a subscriber? Log in

Comments

Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months

Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.

Already a subscriber? Log in