Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 July 2016
870. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the status of the current stage of the EU-US TTIP negotiation; when he expects these talks to produce a draft treaty; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22745/16]
View answerThe 14th round of Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership negotiations between the EU the US took place from 11–15 July, 2016 in Brussels.
During this round, negotiators discussed all three pillars of the proposed agreement namely market access for EU and US companies, regulatory cooperation and trade rules.
A dedicated chapter for small and medium firms has been created, in order to facilitate trade for SMEs by eliminating excessive fees and charges, and by streamlining the processes involved in the export of goods.
Intensive discussions were held on trade and sustainable development, including labour and the environment. A proposal was put forward for a chapter on energy and raw materials which includes proposals to promote green innovations and trade in green technologies. Both the EU and US will continue to work towards consolidation of text in all areas by the end of the year. The objective is to work to achieve an ambitious, high standard and balanced TTIP agreement that responds to both EU and US interests. An agreement would be the world’s largest bilateral trade and investment deal, and a successful conclusion is expected to benefit Ireland more than any other EU Member State. Ireland’s enterprises are particularly well placed to take up opportunities to trade more easily with the US. Studies have shown that the benefits to Ireland will be proportionally greater than in the EU as a whole. Ireland strongly supports these negotiations and is working to ensure that our interests are fully reflected in the texts of the negotiations.
