I move:
That leave be granted to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to provide for the amendment of the European Communities Act 1972, so as to ensure the Government reports to the Oireachtas on negotiations regarding the United Kingdom's intention to withdraw from the European Union; and to provide for related matters.
Tá mé ag iarraidh go gceadófar dom Bille a thabhairt isteach chun Acht na gComhphobal Eorpach, 1972 a leasú. The purpose of the Bill is to amend the European Communities Acts to place a statutory requirement on the Taoiseach to outline to the Dáil the Government's approach to negotiations surrounding British intentions to leave the European Union. The Bill will oblige the Government to report on its approach to preserving the rights of those in the North who will remain EU citizens in the aftermath of Brexit by virtue of their Irish citizenship, and it provides that the Government will report on its approach to opposing the obligations of the British Government and the Irish Government under the Good Friday Agreement. It also obliges the Government to make a quarterly report to the Dáil and the Seanad on developments in the Article 50 negotiating process following the commencement of those negotiations.
I am of the firm view that the Bill will help to facilitate dialogue in the Dáil and go some way towards ensuring all of us are kept up to date on developments in the Article 50 negotiation process. This will facilitate an inclusive process of open policy debate and will inform, I hope, the Government's political and policy response to the British Government's Brexit plans and the EU's plans as they arise.
I understand the British Government will publish a White Paper. The Bill could also set out a practical vision and implementation plan which could form the basis of an Irish Government White Paper. The Government here clearly needs to publish this with all speed. I look forward to seeking the support of all Teachtaí for the Bill in the time ahead.
