Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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35. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on proposals or discussions on EU treaty change he has had. [29972/17]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I have no proposals for Treaty change and neither have I had any formal discussions on Treaty change. As the Deputy is aware, a wide debate on the Future of Europe was launched in Bratislava in September 2016 and the European Commission has published a White Paper on the Future of Europe, as well as a series of reflection papers. Together with my colleague the Minister for European Affairs, I propose to lead a process of public engagement in the coming months on the issues raised. Our extensive analysis of the consequences of Brexit came to an unequivocal conclusion that our future interests are best served by remaining a fully committed member of the European Union. It is imperative, therefore, that we use our influence to shape the future direction of the European Union and each Member State, Ireland included, will be bringing its own contributions to the debate. In taking forward this debate, our focus will be on delivering a positive EU agenda with concrete outcomes that directly benefit EU citizens.