Anthony Lawlor (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister and wish him the best of luck at the Competitiveness Council. I understand negotiations are ongoing between the United States and the European Union on the proposed Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, TTIP. Colleagues have outlined the concerns regarding Ireland's ability to compete, particularly in high energy sectors. The energy cost differential between the European Union and the United States, as outlined, certainly gives us a great deal to consider. Will the Minister comment on this, particularly in the context of the TTIP process?