Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The focus of the Government in the upcoming Brexit negotiations is to protect Ireland's interests and to advance our priorities.  The draft EU guidelines for the Brexit negotiations include strong acknowledgement of Ireland's unique circumstances and the importance of maintaining bilateral arrangements with the UK such as the Common Travel Area.  In the context of both the haulage sector and the wider economy, it is vital to minimise the impact of Brexit by maintaining close trade between the UK and EU/Ireland, minimising regulatory burden for goods transiting the UK and pursuing trade and investment opportunities arising from Brexit.  I can assure you that I and other Government Ministers will continue to work with our EU counterparts, both in EU capitals and within the EU institutions, to advance Ireland's interests in this regard. In relation to the potential impact of Brexit on the road haulage sector, my officials have maintained a close working relationship with their counterparts in the UK and Northern Ireland and regularly interact to discuss issues of mutual interest.  This working relationship is ongoing and will undoubtedly be valuable in the coming months as we consider the potential effects of Brexit and how they might be mitigated.  My officials also continue to meet regularly with representatives of the Irish road haulage industry and will take account of their concerns in engaging with the EU and UK authorities.