Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I assure the Deputy and the House that there is no question of any form of complacency on the part of the Government in respect of this issue. We have made a reasonably positive start to these negotiations. Our priorities have been included in the negotiating guidelines and in the commencement position of the British Government, as outlined in its White Paper and in the letters sent to the EU from Prime Minister May. Ireland's long-standing policy of neutrality, which has been pursued by successive Governments, including one supported by Deputy O'Brien, is well known throughout the EU and Europe. I do not believe there is any EU member state that is not fully au faitwith our long-standing policy of military neutrality, which goes hand in hand with our belief that international engagement is critical to enhanced co-operation and reduced conflict throughout the world. I am conscious of both issues raised by Deputy O'Brien. I assure him and the House that we will continue to be mindful of our unique position regarding our rate of corporation tax and our long-standing policy of military neutrality.

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