Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2017
179. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the engagement he has had with the European Commission, the ECB or the European Banking Authority regarding a possible move of the authority to Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9692/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile I personally have not specifically raised this issue in talks, I would point out that Minister of State Murphy along with my officials are using every opportunity, to promote Ireland as a location of choice for the European Banking Authority. The Department of Finance role in promoting Ireland as a location of choice for the EBA is outlined in the current IFS 2020 strategy. As part of this strategy, the Minister of State Murphy met with the Executive Director of the European Banking Authority earlier this month.
My officials have also been engaging with relevant stakeholders in order to further progress the goal of relocating the European Banking Authority to Ireland, post the completion of the negotiations between the EU and the United Kingdom. This has included meetings with the European Commission in order to highlight the benefits of relocating the Authority to Ireland. The meetings have also sought to determine the needs of the European Banking Authority and its staff, after they are re-located from London.
Finally, I would like to point out that the ultimate decision on relocation of the European Banking Authority will be made by both the European Council and Parliament and will be linked to the triggering of Article 50 by the UK and subsequent negotiations between it and the European Union.
