But sources with knowledge of contacts say there has never been serious engagement on a joint approach to key Covid control measures such as quarantine, travel restrictions or the shutdown of social and economic life. Dublin understands that the DUP will not agree to a joint approach. But there are no substantive discussions on an agreed approach that would devise a single Covid policy for the island. But we have to be seen to try.”Another senior source in Dublin is more sanguine. “It’s a bit of distraction,” says one senior source.

Source: The Irish Times January 28, 2021 14:58 UTC