Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Given that we do not have a designated Minister for Brexit, it is important that the Cabinet committee on the European Union meet regularly. On the EU summit in Tallinn, I note that it was agreed that the European Union would be a global leader in the digital economy and that the leaders were committed to finalising the digital Single Market within a year. Will the Taoiseach provide a progress report on the matter? It is an important aspect of the European Union's agenda and we need to know how Ireland is shaping up in the completion of the digital Single Market.

On the future of Europe, there have been three significant speeches recently, one by the President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker; one by French President Emmanuel Macron and one by the German Chancellor Angela Merkel who supported the views of the French President. A vision for Europe is being set out. I would welcome the Taoiseach's views on how it is proceeding and how we will provide an input. Many are saying many things and the future of Europe is up for grabs. Ireland needs to be clear on where it stands in all of these debates. I know that momentum is building on the issue of corporate tax harmonisation, which is of concern to Ireland. Perhaps, in the Taoiseach's limited time here this afternoon, he might give us his views on the future of Europe, the vision outlined by the various leaders in the last few weeks and, in particular, where Ireland stands on these issues.

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