Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising the question. I understand the Taoiseach has spoken to Prime Minister Barnier to congratulate him on his appointment. I know Prime Minister Barnier well from his time as the EU’s chief negotiator on Brexit. He is a good friend of Ireland and I wish him every success in his new and challenging role. Prime Minister Barnier knows Ireland well and would, of course, be very welcome to visit.

I also look forward to working with my newly appointed counterpart, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot. I have written to congratulate him on his appointment and have extended an open invitation to visit Ireland during his tenure. Former French Prime Minister, Élisabeth Borne, visited Ireland last November together with a ministerial delegation. The visit was a testament to the excellent working relationships between both countries, including at the highest levels of Government.

The Ireland-France joint plan of action comes to an end next year and it has substantially delivered for both countries on shared priorities in areas such as energy security, sustainability, research and education, and trade links. When they met recently, the Taoiseach and President Macron agreed that a second ambitious plan should now be agreed. As two committed European democracies, we share considerable interests and values which can be advanced.

We are currently witnessing great momentum in the Franco-Irish economic relationship across all sectors. Two-way trade between Ireland and France has increased substantially in the past ten years, reaching a record value of €30 billion in 2022. Our increased connectivity post Brexit has created a greater sense of proximity and given rise to new opportunities for business. France is one of the leading EU investment partners in Ireland and one of the top destinations in Europe for Irish investment. We look forward, and I look forward, to a strong working relationship with Prime Minister Barnier and his Cabinet.

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