Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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467. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the recent Economic and Social Research Institute Report regarding a possible British exit from the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39576/15]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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I welcome the publication of this valuable report by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) that was commissioned by the Department of Finance. It has already served to deepen our understanding of the various and complex issues that arise for Ireland in connection with a potential change in the nature of the UK’s relationship with the EU.

The findings of the study are clear: there are significant risks for Ireland if the UK were to leave the EU. Key areas of our economy could be adversely affected and there would also be implications for migration and in regard to the border between both parts of the island. Particular difficulties might arise as well in the energy sector.

The report reinforces our conviction that a British withdrawal from the Union would be very negative for Ireland. That is why we are already working hard, across Government, to help ensure that scenario does not come to pass. This means working with all our EU partners, and especially the UK, to find a solution that will allow for continued British membership of the Union. My Department is naturally heavily involved in that process, as is our Embassy in London and all our diplomatic missions.

The Government has also raised our concerns about any change in the nature of the EU-UK relationship with the British Government. In a number of meetings this year, I have stressed to the British Foreign Secretary, Philip Hammond, how much we value the UK’s continuing presence in the Union. I have also emphasized the important role our common membership has played in strengthening our bilateral ties and in supporting peace and political stability in Northern Ireland. The Taoiseach has made similar points in discussions with Prime Minister Cameron.

The Government will continue to make its voice heard in the debate ahead in the UK on its membership of the Union. Just yesterday in London, the Taoiseach highlighted again how important continued British membership of the EU is to Ireland in a speech at the annual conference of the Confederation of British Industry. He also reconfirmed the Government’s commitment to work with the UK on areas of common interest within the British reform agenda.

Our approach continues to be guided by the belief that the best way to mitigate the risks of a British departure from the Union is to ensure it does not happen in the first place. At the same time, we recognize that we must be prepared for any scenario.