Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not agree with Brian Hayes, MEP, in his setting out of the circumstances under which Ireland may at some future time leave the European Union. I stress, as I have done with my colleagues and as the Taoiseach did at the recent Council meeting, that Ireland firmly remains an active and constructive member of the European Union and the eurozone, irrespective of the result of the UK referendum. It does not by any means alter our membership position within the European Union. I do not envisage any circumstances under which we would give consideration to leaving the Union. The corporation tax rate referred to by Brian Hayes, MEP, is of course a national competency in any event. It is not in any way influenced by our membership of the European Union. The answer to the question is "No."

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