Mary Mitchell O'Connor (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have seen letters in agreement with CETA and I have also seen other letters. I will double-check and get Deputy Collins the exact details. I hear exactly what the Deputy is saying. Substantive engagement took place, sector by sector, to identify Ireland's interests over the course of the negotiations. We looked at the elimination of virtually all tariffs between Ireland and Canada. We looked at the creation of new opportunities for farmers and agrifoods. As the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, I have to make sure that jobs are created throughout Ireland. Over 70% of our exports and half of our domestic economic activity is generated by foreign direct investment. We are trying to make sure that we seize the opportunities. I assure Deputy Collins that there will be a vote in Dáil Éireann. We want to see what benefits will accrue so that we can make an informed decision. I am looking forward to engaging with companies in Canada and Enterprise Ireland will be with me to ensure that we can grow companies. IDA Ireland will also be there to make sure that there is more investment into Ireland. We will then be able to come back and make a better-informed decision on what happens, and then we can vote in Dáil Éireann.

See this speech in context