Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 March 2018
58. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the degree to which he remains in contact with his EU counterparts to ensure the remaining 27 members states of the European Union are ad idem in respect of the need to maintain a co-ordinated approach in the context of the post-Brexit situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11483/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the UK referendum outcome, I have met with my EU counterparts at the monthly Ecofin and Eurogroup meetings, with the next meeting scheduled for 12-13 March. I also meet and speak by phone with my European counterparts on an ongoing basis outside of Ecofin and Eurogroup meetings, as appropriate.
In relation to Brexit, the Government’s priorities are clear: minimising any impact on trade and the economy, protecting the Northern Ireland Peace Process, maintaining the Common Travel Area, and influencing the future of the European Union. A critical part of the Government’s strategy and preparations for the negotiations has been to ensure that our priorities and unique concerns are heard and understood across Europe. The very strong acknowledgement of our unique circumstances by the EU 27, both in the European Council Negotiating Guidelines and the European Commission Draft Withdrawal Agreement is reflective of this engagement. We continue to work closely with the Commission Task Force and our EU 27 partners. As we prepare for the European Council later this month, and for the negotiation period ahead, the Government will continue to engage politically to ensure that Ireland’s interests are kept to the forefront of the negotiations as much as possible.
