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Brexit Negotiations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2021

Wednesday, 13 January 2021

Questions (401)

Matt Carthy

Question:

401. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if there will be Irish representatives on the EU-British specialised trade committees of the post Brexit Trade Partnership Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1541/21]

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Written answers

The EU and UK agreed to create a joint body, called the Partnership Council, to efficiently manage the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

The Partnership Council is co-chaired by a Member of the European Commission and a representative of the UK at Ministerial level. It meets at least once a year, but can meet more often at the request of either the EU or the UK. Any decision is taken by mutual consent between the EU and the UK.

The Partnership Council oversees the attainment of the objectives of the Agreement. The EU or the UK can refer to the Partnership Council any issue relating to the implementation, application and interpretation of the Agreement.

The Partnership Council is assisted in its work by Specialised Committees, including a Trade Partnership Committee, and in some areas by technical working groups.

Member States, including Ireland, will have the right to participate in meetings of these bodies as part of the EU delegation.

It is in all of our interest that the Agreement works as effectively as possible. The specific programme of work and schedule of meetings for these bodies will be determined in the period ahead. Ireland will engage closely with our EU partners to ensure that our key interests are protected and advanced in this work.

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