Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy asked if I had received any additional request for investment in response to Brexit or the other threats he mentioned. I have not received any such request since the budget, but the budget only took place a few weeks ago. I continually receive proposals for additional expenditure. I expect that early next year there will be further claims and demands both within government and elsewhere to look at how we can respond to the challenges. Within the budget and spending plans we have for next year, we have very strong plans to respond to the threats the Deputy mentioned.

The Deputy raised a very important point on trade agreements. Ireland has built much of our recent prosperity on ordered trade agreements with other countries and the Single Market is the best example of that. I believe this will be one of the greatest areas of challenge in the future. Have additional requests for funding in that area come in since budget day? The answer to that question is "no". However, I believe this will be a major area of focus in coming years. For that reason it is important that the House unites behind Ireland's continued membership of the Single Market, in particular.

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