CLEAN : Irish foreign minister describes problems with UK Brexit plan

The transcript discusses the economic context and Prime Minister Johnson's proposals regarding regulatory alignment on the island of Ireland. It highlights the challenges of having two different customs territories and the EU's concerns. The discussion evaluates the proposals as a potential stepping stone towards a deal, acknowledging both the seriousness and the problems of the British proposal.

How does the speaker view the potential of the proposal as a stepping stone?

What is the speaker's overall hope regarding the proposals discussed?