Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his support and agree with him on the position he outlined, which is helpful and constructive. With regard to the renegotiation by the United Kingdom of its relationship with the European Union and the capacity of Ireland to be of assistance with pragmatic and constructive proposals, rather than looking at it as the United Kingdom trying to have separate and distinct arrangements for itself, we can see it as the United Kingdom trying to make changes in the European Union to the benefit of the whole Community. If we approach it from that perspective, there is a better chance of securing a positive result. I can envisage a case where the United Kingdom will advocate change, arguing that such changes would benefit all member countries of the Community, and will be accommodated in that space. That is opposed to the United Kingdom stating it is different and needs a separate deal. That is not a workable solution.

See this speech in context