Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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59. To ask the Minister for Finance the extent to which his Department continues to monitor the ongoing situation which may lead the United Kingdom to exit the European Union; if he expects the need to take particular steps to protect the financial services sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13596/15]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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The Government's position on developments in relation to the UK's membership of the EU has been set out on a number of occasions by the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. The UK's continuing membership of the EU is a strategic objective for the Government. It is very important for our economy and for the ongoing development of good relations between Ireland and the UK. It is the Government's stated position as well that the EU itself is stronger and more effective with the UK as an integral member.

The Government is monitoring developments in the relationship between the UK and the EU very carefully in order to best understand the different interests at stake.  My Department is focusing, in particular, on the economic and financial issues involved.

In this regard, it is worth noting that an agreement between this Department and the Economic and Social Research Institute on a research programme covering macroeconomic and taxation issues was signed on 3 February.  One of the topics being covered by the research programme concerns the macroeconomic links between the UK and Ireland in the context of joint membership of the EU. This will include trade and investment aspects of our relationship with the UK, including financial services. The research will be published in due course.

We recognise, of course, that the nature of the UK's relationship with the EU is primarily an issue for the British people. While respecting that fact, my Department will continue to work alongside other Departments, particularly the Department of the Taoiseach, to enhance our understanding of any developments which have a potential impact on Ireland. We will also seek to play a constructive role in the evolving debate on the matter, when appropriate.