John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I was surprised by the positive, dynamic nature of Mr. Sweetman’s report. It is very forward-looking. It has exciting energy in terms of our trading relationships with the US and EU. There is a lot of anxiety nationally and at EU level that is not reflected at all in the report. Based on interactions we have had with other witnesses and as part of our roles as TDs and as members of other committees, how realistic is the report about trading relationships? There was a hell of a lot of anxiety. I am aware that Mr. Sweetman has covered tariffs and that there is more work to be done in this regard, but I wonder how stable, secure and lasting the agreements are. Why is the level of anxiety over trade with the US not reflected at all in what Mr. Sweetman is saying? He does not seem to feel a need to refer to it.