Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

23. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the discussions he has had with his European counterparts on the transatlantic trade and investment partnership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47999/14]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership was discussed at the last EU Council of Trade Ministers on 21 November which I attended. The Council was briefed by Commissioner Malmström and took stock of the current state of play. The Council adopted a set of policy conclusions that give clear, unambiguous and reasoned political support for the TTIP negotiations. The conclusions which were agreed at Council highlight sustainable growth and jobs as a key priority for the EU, the importance of an ambitious Agreement in that context, and the importance of better communicating the scope and the benefits of the Agreement to all our stakeholders. I recalled the importance of these negotiations for jobs and economic growth, and that we needed to vigorously pursue this. I also pointed to the importance of transparency, the provision of information and communication. In this regard, I welcomed the Commissioner’s plans to improve transparency and openness in these negotiations.