Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I already asked three questions about the €50 billion fund, and while I am happy to wait for the Taoiseach to respond to me in writing, the Minister of State might respond now if she can. I am also happy to receive a response in writing to the question about own resources.

I have two questions, however, that I would like the Minister of State to address now. On the issue of state aid, I stated that the Commission and the Council have spoken about maximum flexibility in regard to the budget and state aid rules. I asked what flexibility we had shown in this country and I specifically mentioned Aer Lingus, but I wish to ask a more general question about that and about how we compare with other European countries. I hope I am not taking him up wrong, but I think Deputy Howlin asked whether there was even a hint that there might be a shifting of the ground in respect of state aid in the Brexit negotiations. I do not think the Minister of State answered that question - if she did, I did not pick it up - but she might outline whether that is the case. It would not just be significant for the country but would have massive implications for the Border areas in particular.

Several Deputies asked about the package and Ireland's share. The share is as it is because the rationale used takes into account our growth levels in previous years. While we want the amount changed, are we making any progress in changing the basis for the decisions being made about what each member state will get? We should not just ask for more money but seek to change the basis and arguments being put forward for deciding on the final sum.

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