Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The idea of low-grade or genetically modified beef coming into Europe has been explicitly excluded in the mandate. That is not an eventuality that the EU would countenance. In respect of wages and employment conditions, the Department has commissioned some research into this which indicates there would be benefits through improvements in wages, employment, exports and growth. The balance sheet is positive on all aspects of employment and working conditions.

I recognise there are concerns in any trade negotiations because barriers will come down. Obviously, those sectors behind some large barriers will face more competition. Other opportunities, however, will arise in sectors where Europe can now get into US markets, where previously there were substantial barriers to European businesses. It is a two-way process and there will always be some level of trading to be agreed. Both sides will have to be satisfied that the reduction in trade barriers is an improvement. Every assessment would show the reduction of such barriers improves the opportunities in both countries. Trade barriers are not helpful by pushing up costs and representing a loss. While I understand the Deputy’s concerns, these are negotiations which will be done in a very open and transparent way and people will have an opportunity to input into them.

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