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

While Irish meat export volumes to Canada are low, there is a real prospect of growing business with that country. That is important for producers here. I am not saying there are no difficulties with these international trade agreements - I accept there can be aspects - but I am asking the Deputy to have a more comprehensive approach to it because there are huge opportunities. The removal of Canada's 26.5% import tariff will be significant. The Irish dairy industry will benefit from Canada opening a new bilateral quota with the EU of 18,500 tonnes of cheese and the elimination of all tariffs on its milk proteins. These are important initiatives which will help very important sectors in Ireland to grow their markets and diversify, which is even more important given the challenge of Brexit. I am pointing out all the positives around CETA which will impact on farm families and business up and down this country as they face into the challenging period ahead. That aspect of these trade agreements is certainly worth putting on the floor of the House.

See this speech in context