The UK Government publishes a ‘Northern Ireland and Ireland Position Paper’, outlining the UK's position on how to address the unique circumstances of Northern Ireland and Ireland in light of the UK's withdrawal from – and new partnership with – the EU11 May 2017The Culture, Tourism, Europe and External Relations Committee takes evidence from Michael Russell MSP, Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland's Place in Europe.17 May 2017European Council President Donald Tusk addresses the European Parliament on the outcome of the European Council meeting of the 29 April.22 May 2017EU General Affairs Council authorises the opening of negotiations and adopts a negotiating mandate for the European Commission.