Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We would all agree that we can learn something from each other. We can certainly learn from Cuba and they can learn from us. That is why it is important not just for Irish-Cuban relations but for EU-Cuban relations as well. On the timelines, it is true that 20 other member states have ratified this already. There are still some that have not, so we are not exactly last. One of the biggest challenges has been Brexit. There is no point in saying otherwise. There has been a delay in terms of administration and staff in being able to process this. At the same time, that has not prevented the actual application of this agreement, which has been in place for some time now. A number of informal dialogues have been taking place since as far back as 2015 in anticipation of this agreement, particularly in the area of human rights. The most recent one took place in 2018, in October I think, with the anticipation of this being agreed by all member states. We have moved it along as quickly as we can. There were other challenges in front of us; there was no other reason.

There are no plans that I am aware of at the moment but this is something we can raise with Enterprise Ireland. The Global Ireland 2025 strategy is focusing on doubling our global footprint across the globe. This region is of particular significance for us as well so if there are particular companies that have an interest, Enterprise Ireland would be very interested and happy to engage in that regard. I believe a number of small Irish companies are actively pursuing opportunities in the Cuban market but as mentioned by many Deputies there are many challenges in terms of the embargo and also the Helms-Burton Act. That is an issue we have raised, and particularly the Tánaiste, at the foreign affairs committee. The High Representative, Federica Mogherini, has raised that also in our discussions at the United Nations. We have been asking for the US to reinstate the waiver that had previously been in place for six months at a time. It was then reduced to 45 days and it is no longer in place now. That is hindering matters and, as far as we are concerned, is contrary to international European law. We are continually raising that issue to see if the waiver can be reinstated as quickly as possible.

Overall, relations between the EU, Ireland and Cuba have improved significantly in recent years. This agreement shows a willingness and an openness for Cuba to re-engage on specific issues and areas of concern. This gives us the platform to do that. Also, the 20-year anniversary gives us a particular emphasis this year and an opportunity at home and in Cuba to see how we can strengthen that, not just in terms of trade or economically but culturally and otherwise.

I thank the Deputies for their support. I look forward to the motion being passed by the Dáil with full agreement and support from all political parties and none.