Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In recent times France has appointed a number of honorary consuls across the regions of Ireland, including one in Wexford. Does the Tánaiste have any plans to appoint honorary French consuls to represent Ireland in the regions of France to deepen that new connectivity?

Nick Thomas-Symonds is the British Cabinet Office minister who last week briefed the Oireachtas Joint Committee on European Union Affairs on the potential for the next round review of the post-Brexit trade arrangements between UK and the EU.

They are approaching that with a very positive attitude, with the participation of France. Obviously, it will be a direct negotiation between the Commission, the Council and the British Prime Minister. Having someone as experienced as the French Prime Minister might be a help in improving the wrinkles that have yet to be ironed out in the trade arrangements.

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