Micheál Martin (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 11, inclusive, together.

The Programme for Government 2025: Securing Ireland’s Future, recognises the importance of Cabinet committees to the policy development and oversight work of Government. The Cabinet committee on the European Union and international affairs was established by the Government on 18 February 2025. Its role is to oversee implementation of programme for Government commitments in respect of the European Union, including preparation for Ireland's Presidency in the second half of 2026 and international issues.

A date for the next meeting of the Cabinet committee has not yet been scheduled. It most recently met on Monday, 16 June in advance of the June European Council meeting. The committee considered the substantial items on the agenda for the June European Council. As I told the House in my statement last week, the June European Council discussed developments in Ukraine and the Middle East, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza. European defence and security, global economic developments, competitiveness, migration, preparedness and the European Union's internal security were also on the agenda.

While European Union-US trade negotiations were not a formal agenda item, given the approaching deadline for the end of the US pause on higher rate tariffs, it was discussed among leaders. As the House will be aware, I have expressed my disappointment at the letter sent by the US to the European Union and the indication that a tariff of 30% may be imposed on imports from the European Union. The European Union continues to negotiate with the United States in good faith. Notwithstanding the letter, the facts remain that the deadline for talks is 1 August. The European Commission has been clear that it is working towards the conclusion of a deal as soon as possible and in advance of the deadline. The Government strongly supports these efforts. Our objective remains agreement on a mutually beneficial deal that works for both sides. A negotiated outcome is the best way forward.

I was in touch with President von der Leyen by phone on 7 July and again at the weekend when she updated me on the latest situation in negotiations with the United States. While the European Union will continue to work for an agreement, it will also continue to prepare for other outcomes.

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