Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I had reason to read all the statements made by the Taoiseach on the US election, both before and after the event, and I found no evidence that he was cheer-leading either candidate. On the contrary, he took an extremely neutral view. I take the Deputy's point on the importance of foreign direct investment in Ireland and that this country has been the biggest beneficiary of American direct investment. That is one reason for Forfás and IDA Ireland to review the impact of the US decision for investment. The view has been strongly expressed that this economy's success regarding foreign direct investment, particularly from the US, has been driven by factors other than those that will be affected by the decision, but it is very important strategically and economically for this country, and it will certainly be kept under review.

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