Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I ask the Deputy to do the very same. He should look under the bonnet of CETA as well to see the huge advantages it offers in Ireland. It covers virtually all aspects of economic activity. The Deputy should consider the new market opportunities which are very significant for many Irish firms and in the context of Brexit they will welcome those opportunities. Irish companies will now be able to bid for Canadian public contracts as limitations on those will end under CETA. Irish firms will also benefit from the recognition of product standards and certification thus saving on the double testing on both sides of the Atlantic. Ireland has strong protections for the beef industry through restrictive quotas for Canadian beef entering the EU. CETA will also provide very significant opportunities for the dairy industry which could find Brexit quite challenging given its dependence on the UK market. There are many opportunities in CETA for Irish firms and business which will help many Irish families. It is very important to consider that aspect as well.

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