The two have long been at odds on the matter of one particular border, but this week Ireland and the UK are signing an agreement designed to crack down on the number of illegal immigrants crossing over their respective borders and then between the two jurisdictions.
The deal will be signed in Dublin by government representatives of both countries.
According to an RTE report, it aims to put in place standard entry requirements and enhanced electronic border systems while tightening up on the issuing of visas. It also provides for a greater exchange of information such as fingerprint biometrics and biographical details.
The agreement is being billed by both Dublin and London as a reinforcement of the commitment by both governments to preserving the Common Travel Area, which came into being in the 1920s to allow for the free movement for nationals of both countries between both countries.
