Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)

It might be easier if I just quickly answer Deputy Ó Laoghaire's question because it is likely there will be several questions. On tariffs, there were discussions about tariffs and this particular debate on the margins of the European Council meeting. Discussions between the EU and the US are ongoing. As the Taoiseach already said, President von der Leyen spoke to him on Monday. Commissioner Šefčovič, who is lead for the EU, is in constant contact with the Government and with the Tánaiste. I also meet with him in Brussels. Those discussions are at a very advanced stage. I was not updated this morning because I was dealing with other matters but these discussions are ongoing. We know that the US side has announced an extension but we should be under no illusions; the trading position of the EU, and therefore of Ireland, is highly vulnerable. We are in constant contact with the Commission. I am sure the Commission is well able to handle criticism from Members of the Irish Parliament. We are talking to these people every day about the trading position of this country, which is really important for jobs and economic growth. I can think of many industries in the Deputy's constituency, in my own and in everybody else's that will be impacted by the agreements I hope will be reached and the decisions that may be made by one side or the other. We are working as hard as possible to make sure the Irish economy is protected to the greatest extent possible. That work is ongoing as we speak.

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