When Michel Barnier was announced as the new French Prime Minister, it was received with unreserved joy in Irish politics and diplomacy circles. Even though his latest role is expected to primarily involve domestic affairs, there are scarcely foreign politicians who are regarded with such high esteem in Dublin. Barnier is viewed as a solid friend of Ireland, which is always advantageous when such a person occupies a position of power.
Barnier served as the chief Brexit negotiator for the EU during the extensive and intense negotiations over the UK’s exit conditions. During the Brexit referendum, the predominant view among the British Brexit advocates who controlled the political scene was that Ireland’s desires and interests would be sacrificed in favor of larger nations due to their eagerness to sell their products (German cars, French cheese and wine, Italian and Spanish olive oil and other goods) to the UK.
Nevertheless, contrary to this view, the EU continually upheld Ireland’s priorities as their own, causing an uproar in the UK. This policy was championed by none other than Michel Barnier, earning him a mixed reputation as both reviled in the UK and revered as a national hero in Ireland.
Barnier formed a strong professional and personal bond with Simon Coveney, the then Minister for Foreign Affairs. This relationship persists till today. When Coveney stepped down from the Cabinet, Barnier reached out, and likewise, Coveney recently extended his best wishes and congratulations to Barnier on his new appointment as Prime Minister.
Coveney fondly remembers the time he invited Barnier, who was accompanied by his son, to a rugby match between France and Ireland in Dublin, where one of Barnier’s other sons resided. As they navigated Lansdowne Road to reach the stadium, they were constantly approached by fellow spectators expressing gratitude towards Barnier for his assistance throughout Brexit, leaving a distinct impression on him.
Coveney lauds Barnier’s ability to listen and to grasp Ireland’s viewpoint, labeling him as a thorough and fierce negotiator who’s amicable when finding common ground. According to Coveney, Barnier’s ability to pay attention to details is commendable, noting his willingness to meet everyday people in the border counties.
Declan Kelleher, the former Irish ambassador to the EU, acknowledged the widespread trust built between the Irish government and Barnier during Brexit negotiations. Former Irish diplomat, Rory Montgomery recalls Barnier as a trusty companion throughout the Brexit discussions, assisted by the European Council and major member states. He noticed Barnier’s close relationship with Simon Coveney and the coordination between their teams.
An official described Barnier as persistent and meticulous and noted his outstanding manners. They recalled his polite interaction with everyone, his perfect memory of names, and impeccable conduct, even with lower rank officials at the Irish embassy in Brussels.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin also admired Barnier, describing him as a balanced, seasoned, and shrewd politician. Taoiseach Simon Harris named him “a significant politician and a great friend to Ireland.”
While everyone acknowledges the challenge Barnier faces in his latest role, Coveney emphasizes Barnier’s knack for forming political alliances, a skill he has demonstrated over his career. Barnier, originally from the Alpine highlands of Savoie, considers himself a montagnard or a mountain-dweller. He illustrated this with his statement: “We montagnards always move forward, we never retreat.” Yet, he has some difficult paths to navigate in the future.