A Cavan TD has spoken about his concerns in relation to the stalemate between political parties in the North, which could see a fresh election being called if the executive isn't reformed by Friday's deadline.
According to Deputy Brendan Smith, the EU has indicated "very clearly" that it wants to deal with the obstacles that are the source for concern.
Despite this, the DUP says it won't go back until the government's protocol bill, which aims to scrap parts of the post-Brexit deal, is through Britain's parliament.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Deputy Smith outlined the EU's willingness to negotiate on issues and to ensure that the protocol works in the best interest for everybody.
Deputy Smith added that the Good Friday Agreement ensures that neither side of community in the North can impose their will.
However, he believes that the safe guarding mechanisms built within the agreement were never meant to be used to bring down the executive and to not have an assembly running:
