Custom checks in Ireland an 'act of political vandalism' to Good Friday Agreement, TD claims

Putting up custom checks in Ireland would be an act of "political vandalism" to the Good Friday Agreement, a TD has claimed.

Sinn Fein's Pearse Doherty has called on the Government to clarify details of talks with the European Commission over the location of custom checks should there be a no-deal Brexit.

He warned that any custom checks here would be unsustainable and a retrograde step for the country and the peace process.

Demonstrators dressed as custom officials setting up a mock customs checkpoint at the border crossing in Killeen, near Dundalk. (AFP PHOTO / Paul FAITHPAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images)

Sinn Fein TD Pearse Doherty (Liam McBurney/PA Wire)

The Donegal Deputy said: "Any imposition of custom checks is a backward step for this country.

"The fact that such political vandalism is now being discussed is proof that the interests of the British Government and the peace process are now irreconcilable.

“The Tánaiste should not be forced to choose between the single market and the Good Friday Agreement.

"Any impediment to trade and movement on this island will damage Border communities, harm the economy and undermine the architecture of the Good Friday Agreement."