Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I have not had engagement with anybody recently on the new Bill but given the significant level of public interest in it, several international partners, including the United States and a number of European and like-minded countries, have expressed an interest in the Bill and the Government’s approach more generally. My officials have engaged with them on the matter, including briefing them on the Government’s position.

I will get a chance to come back in a moment but it is a known statement of fact that the previous US ambassador, for example, wrote to me, as Taoiseach at the time, expressing a view in relation to the Bill. Ireland takes every opportunity internationally to outline our position including engaging with interlocutors. However, that will have no effect or impact on decisions we make in proceeding with legislation that we feel strongly on.

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