Keynote speaker, Stefaan De Rynck, Author of ‘Inside the Deal – How the EU Got Brexit Done’ and Former Senior Advisor to Michel Barnier. Hosted by Jim Fitzpatrick (openDemocracy; former BBC NI Spotlight), with contributions from Professor Katy Hayward.

The rollercoaster ride of the Brexit negotiations fascinated observers internationally even as it transformed the UK’s relationship with its nearest neighbours. In their search for the meaning of Brexit, Theresa May and Boris Johnson opted for different trade-offs, with significant repercussions for Northern Ireland. Stefaan De Rynck will explain how the process behind these trade-offs unfolded. His account of how deliberations and obstacles shaped the final deal offers lessons for processes of negotiation of all types. After a brief talk, Stefaan will be in conversation with Jim Fitzpatrick about his book. They will then be joined by Prof Katy Hayward for an open Q&A with the audience.