Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I would be delighted to clarify my views on anything if I had a little more time. Specifically on the question, I am asking the Minister what analysis has been done and he is clarifying he is undertaking it and that it will be published in April. I understand the dilemma because there might be no tariffs tomorrow and it is all changing. We are dealing with a bully here.

I asked about the exposure of Ireland specifically. It is exposed for many reasons. One is that we are utterly reliant on one type of policy and approach. This has brought wealth to the country, but for a long time we have been warned that we must examine that, develop indigenous industry and consider other sources of employment. That is the part I am concerned about in the first instance.

I am also very concerned that our stand on Palestine, which I am proud of and which reflects the Minister’s words, will be used in this. We are setting up a consultative forum and an advisory panel because industry in America will have a major influence on policy. I do not expect the Minister to answer my question in the minute available, but I am anxious that we remain an independent, sovereign State and diversify our employment.

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