Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 July 2016
23. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach if he has made contact with the leaders of the main political groupings across the European Union, including the group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, the group of the European People’s Party and the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe, in the context of Ireland's post-Brexit strategy. [22493/16]
View answerAs this Government prepares for the complex negotiations triggered by the UK decision to leave the European Union, we fully appreciate that engagement with a wide-range of stakeholders is essential.
It is most welcome that the members of the House share this view. I think we all recognise that the protection of Ireland’s interests in future EU-UK negotiations and in bilateral discussions with the UK is a national priority of the highest importance.
Rightly and necessarily, a significant element of engagement involves the Oireachtas and political parties. We will also of course consult with all other stakeholders.
Since the UK referendum, I have twice met with opposition leaders and representatives for a discussion about its implications. As mentioned when we last met on 14 July, I intend to continue this dialogue as the situation evolves. I imagine that the Dáil and the Seanad, as well as the Committee on EU Affairs, will also wish to consider their own roles in terms of contributing to the national debate.
Political engagement at the European level is also critically important. When attending meetings in Brussels and elsewhere, or indeed when receiving counterparts in Dublin, Government Ministers and I myself have continually highlighted our particular links to the UK, and our specific issues of concern.
In relation to engagement with the broader political groupings at European level, I myself, relevant Government Ministers, and indeed Minister of State Dara Murphy in his role as Vice President of the EPP, have taken every opportunity to flag Irish priority issues to our colleagues within the EPP grouping. I know that Deputies with affiliations to other European groupings have undertaken similar engagement and I take this opportunity to thank them for their efforts.
There are also political and official channels open to all Irish MEPs, to ensure that they are fully briefed on the latest developments. This includes through Ministerial visits to the European Parliament, the most recent of which was Minister of State Dara Murphy’s visit to Strasbourg in early July, when he had a very constructive exchange with MEPs.
