Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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251. To ask the Minister for Finance if he has prepared a memorandum on the economic implications here of a "Yes" vote in the Scottish independence referendum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34118/14]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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The Government's consistent position has been that the issue of Scottish independence is a matter for decision by the people of Scotland. The Government has adopted a strictly neutral approach to the debate in Scotland and has avoided speculation on, or anticipation of, potential outcomes.

Our impartiality should not however be mistaken for indifference. We fully recognise the importance of developments in Scotland and we are monitoring the situation and its implications in light of our own interests and policy objectives. We maintain regular contacts with the relevant authorities and with key people, including through our Ambassador to the United Kingdom and our Consul General in Edinburgh. The Government accords high priority to the maintenance and development of strong relations with all our neighbours in these islands and will continue to do so.