Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

The Taoiseach has told us about the efforts being made at official level to liaise with US legislators and the US Administration in regard to the taxation issue in the US, which I welcome. To that end, what contacts are being made at Government level, in particular in the context of the legislation which will be considered on Capitol Hill? In that context, would the Taoiseach consider it useful to provide briefings to the Opposition parties here on the progress of those contacts and discussions to ensure a united political front on the issue from this end?

It appears there are a number of issues on which a common position emanating from the main political parties in this State would be helpful, including concern in regard to the changes in the US tax regime, a commitment to the retention of our current rate of corporate tax and a commitment to our future in the European Union. There are a number of issues which I believe are of concern to US businesses located here and considering locating here. I suggest that on these issues it is desirable a harmonious voice politically emanates from this State. I suggest the Taoiseach arrange to have the Opposition parties briefed on the issue.

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