Garret Ahearn (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his opening statement and his replies so far. Listening to the contributions, one would think that this is a bad thing that is happening for Ireland, but it is important to stress that this is about supporting and, importantly, protecting Irish businesses. What type of impact does the delay in ratifying CETA have on businesses the more we delay? Other members referred to other countries that have not ratified it yet. Many have ratified it, but is it not true that the ones that have not ratified it already are at a further stage than we are at present, and that we are behind them in ratifying it? I agree with the Minister in terms of having court cases and committee meetings that delay things, albeit today's debate is important. By delaying this, we are delaying protection for businesses and opportunities for businesses between Ireland and Canada. Members have referred to other countries that have not ratified it, but is it not the case that they are ahead of us in the process of ratifying it?