Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Ireland is better prepared for this than most other countries. It may not be of interest to some other countries that there is an election under way in Northern Ireland. I heard the Prime Minister state yesterday that all the devolved administrations would be represented on the British negotiation team. I have outlined our priorities on many occasions.

While I am not responsible for the issue of sterling, it has clearly caused a problem for Bord Bia - we heard figures of between €300 million and €500 million - and the mushroom industry. The Government has responded to that immediate problem by making available low interest, long-term credit. We need to look at new markets for Ireland in the eurozone and beyond. I met last week with officials from the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation who outlined a whole programme of events and opportunities for Ministers, agencies and businesses to promote their business in new markets. These will, I hope, consolidate these companies and employment.

I have offered to give regular briefings to the parties about Brexit issues as they arise.

See this speech in context