Micheál Martin
Question:120. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has spoken with Mr. Michel Barnier recently. [8472/18]
View answerTuesday, 20 February 2018
Questions (120)
Written answers
Our Permanent Representation in Brussels, my officials and I remain in regular contact with Michel Barnier and his Taskforce to ensure that Ireland’s interests continue to be advanced and protected in the EU-UK negotiations.
I have met with Mr Barnier on four occasions since taking office, most recently in advance of the General Affairs Council (Article 50) in Brussels on 12 December 2017. We spoke in detail about the commitments and principles on Irish-specific issues set out in the Joint Report of 8 December and the necessary follow-up and implementation required. I thanked him for his continued support for Ireland in face of the unique challenges that we face in the context of Brexit.
At the General Affairs Council (Art. 50) on 29 January, Mr Barnier updated Ministers on the overall state of play of negotiations. The Council also adopted supplementary negotiating directives mandating the European Commission Taskforce to open negotiations with the UK on a transitional arrangement. I was unable to travel on account of other pressing business and Ireland was represented by the Minister of State, Helen McEntee.
I look forward to attending the General Affairs Council (Art. 50) on 27 February, at which Michel Barnier will present a further update to EU27 Member States at this important point in the negotiations. I will seek to meet him bilaterally also.