Arlene Foster says she will not allow Northern Ireland to follow the Republic’s rules, set by Brussels

Arlene Foster has told the heads of the European Union’s member states to ignore claims that Brexit presents a threat to the peace process.

In a letter seen by The Times, the DUP leader said that the peace process was not in peril, a claim that prompted a rebuke from Michael Creed, the agriculture minister, last night.

“It is important to be clear that no threat exists to the Northern Ireland peace process,” Mrs Foster said in the letter dated November 24. “Everyone’s focus should be on delivering practical solutions rather than exacerbating any difficulties.”

Mr Creed said he did not believe Mrs Foster’s position was shared across Northern Ireland. “The border is about more than just trade; it’s hardwired to our DNA. That