The European Union has drafted legislation that aims to strengthen its hand in taking action against the UK over possible breaches of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement and EU-UK trade deal.

It comes after the UK published legislation to give ministers powers to override elements of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Fine Gael MEP for Ireland South Sean Kelly has been appointed lead author in finalising the draft legislation, which looks at the measures contained in the post-Brexit trade deal on what retaliatory action can be taken if one side does not adhere to its obligations.

"So basically, we will put on the table the steps that will be taken if they continue down this path, and giving the opportunity to the Commission on how to do it," he said.

More reports RTE News on developments.