Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 September 2016
83. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Finance the issues discussed at his meeting with Chancellor Hammond in London on 22 September 2016; if any actions will be taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27939/16]
View answerI met with the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer in London on 22 September 2016.
At this meeting, I set out the key issues for Ireland arising from the UK referendum on EU membership, while fully respecting the agreement at EU level that there will be no negotiations until the UK has triggered Article 50.
The key issues for Ireland have been articulated on numerous occasions by me and other members of the Government and relate to the close economic relationship with the UK and the interconnectedness of our trade, the potential economic and political impact on North-South relations, the Common Travel Area and the EU itself.
In terms of actions, substantial work has already been undertaken across Government to identify the key strategic, policy and operational risks arising. Following the referendum outcome, this work has been intensified and prioritised across all Government Departments and agencies. In any future negotiations, our primary objective remains to protect and advance this country's interests.
