Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is what he intends to do, however, so we will know at that stage. For us, Northern Ireland is not an afterthought and far be it from Deputy McDonald to assume that. When Ireland held the EU Presidency at the start of 2013, we had personnel from Northern Ireland based in Brussels so that they were fully acquainted with what was happening. The issues were being discussed on the basis of an all-island economy.

We are very supportive of the British Government's move to give authority to the Northern Ireland Assembly to reduce corporation tax and make us more compatible as an island entity. We have been clear about that.

I have spoken to Prime Minister Cameron about the referendum but I do not know the question he is going to ask. I know the general nature of the question but not how it will be phrased. We have pointed out the impact of Britain leaving the European Union on both the Republic and Northern Ireland. Mr. Cameron is well aware of that.

Deputy McDonald mentioned the First Minister in Scotland. My understanding is that the SNP will be voting to stay in the European Union but if the overall British electorate, including that part of it in Northern Ireland, decided to leave, the party might take a different view about a second run at independence. However, that is a matter for the SNP. In that sense, it is important for us.

In fairness to Deputy Martin, his party stated during the referendum campaign on the fiscal stability treaty that it is important to protect the business element relating to this country whereby jobs are created, people are employed and families can have careers. We will protect it and our people voted to protect it. We have strong trade links with the British economy, as well as strong links with the euro and the eurozone.

This is a pathetic attempt to link us with Tory Government but Deputy McDonald has tried that before. We are very different parties and personalities.

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