Robert Dowds (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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47. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if in the interests of prudence, his Department has prepared or is preparing a report on the consequences for Ireland in the event that the United Kingdom votes to leave the European Union in the next five years; and if no such report has or is being prepared, his views on having such a report prepared in the near future. [10073/14]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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The developments in the United Kingdom in relation to engagement with the European Union are followed in detail in my Department and in the Department of the Taoiseach as well as other Government Departments concerned. The debate in the UK has moved quickly, but its outcome remains uncertain. There are a large number of variables which could affect whether a referendum on EU membership will take place in the UK, and indeed on what basis any such referendum might take place. Ahead of Westminster elections which are expected in the first half of 2015, the benefit of preparing reports, by their nature static, is open to question.

I have been clear in voicing our view that Europe is a shared asset from which Ireland and the UK, and the relationship between us, have benefited significantly. Ireland has a unique relationship with the UK and thus has a deep interest in the outcome of this debate about the UK’s future in Europe. We value the contribution the UK has made to the EU during the four decades we have been members together and hope that this will continue.

Our Embassy in London actively monitors the ongoing debate with regard to the United Kingdom’s EU membership. I will continue to ensure that appropriate consideration is given to the potential consequences for Ireland of future developments.