Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 November 2012
174. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has discussed the agreement on Scotland holding a referendum in 2014 with Prime Minister Cameron or Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46065/12]
View answer175. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on whether the Scottish referendum in 2014 has any implications for the island of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46066/12]
View answer176. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Scottish referendum has been discussed at the recent EU Council meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46067/12]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 174 to 176, inclusive, together.
The debate on Scottish independence is naturally one that I am following very closely. Any change in the status of Scotland within the United Kingdom would certainly have implications for our relations, both with Scotland and with the United Kingdom.
Of course, the issue of independence is a matter for decision by the people of Scotland. As part of the Edinburgh Agreement of 15 October last, both the Scottish and British Governments have committed to respect the outcome of the referendum, whatever it might be. In terms of process, it has been agreed that the wording of the question to be asked in the referendum, the exact timing of the referendum and the franchise of those eligible to vote in the referendum are all a matter for the Scottish Government.
I am not aware of the Scottish referendum having been discussed by the EU Council.
