Joe Neville (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

"I believe in America" is the opening line of "The Godfather" movie and as the undertaker Bonasera said, I too believe in America. Brought up in a western European post-war world, many of us saw America as a beacon of prosperity and hope, a vision of opportunity. Over the years and through different US administrations, we have not always agreed with American presidents but we have broadly supported America.

In my lifetime, the culture and influences of American music and movies have not only pervaded our lives but our economy has been lifted by the great US corporate names of Intel, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pfizer, Apple and Microsoft. In my home town of Leixlip alone, I have seen at first hand the impact of Intel and Hewlett-Packard on the local and national economy. All of this to say that America has been a great friend of ours. I recognise that. Our history of emigration has ensured that many of the people in this Chamber have relatives in the US. Despite all of this, our relationship is in flux. We do not know where Ireland or Europe sits with this administration. Formerly friends, some European countries were allies of the US in past wars and its closest world trade partners but the US President's Administration treats EU nations in a way that does no befit previous relationships.

The concept of tariffs has never been positive. Blanket tariffs imposed without thought or structure can be catastrophic and can have dangerous, unintended consequences. Trade relations can be damaged and international relations realigned. This state of flux is dangerous, especially for a small open economy like ours. The Irish economy as structured needs a vibrant and international trade environment. If the world economic order continues to fluctuate, there are perilous waters ahead. Exports could be hit, investments could be paused and jobs could be lost. That is our reality. We must therefore keep cool heads and not overreact. We must work closely where we can with our EU trade partners and the USA for a resolution.

As I said, America has been a great ally to western Europe and despite the actions of one administration, it should remain so. We must not burn any bridges or speak any vitriol. We must remain measured and calm. Ireland has been governed well and is stable, so we can get through this economic shock. We must remain steady and poised, ready for what is coming but also hopeful for a new morning in America when this issue can be resolved.

See this speech in context