John Clendennen (Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The promises President Trump made from the Rose Garden last night were essentially protectionism with thorny tariffs, presenting challenges and uncertainty for many sectors, including businesses, farmers and livelihoods in County Offaly. It is essential we maintain a sense of calm with a measured response, proactively working with our EU counterparts through trade, diversification and deepening relationships with other global partners. Thankfully, we come from a position of strength due the prudent management of our public finances. Every challenge presents opportunity. Our respective State agencies must renew their focus on introducing our high levels of quality, innovation and diversification to new markets. Will the Tánaiste outline the significance and plan of new free trade agreements, considering the tariffs imposed by the United States on the European Union? Can he provide a timeline for the ratification process of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between the EU and Canada, CETA?

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