Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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118. To ask the Minister for Finance his views on the future level of Ireland's contribution to the EU budget and multi-annual financial framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12894/18]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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My Department currently forecasts that Ireland's contribution to the EU budget will be €2,650 million in 2018, €2,675 million in 2019 and €2,750 million in 2020. It is worth noting that these forecasts are contingent on a number of variables, including updated GNI forecasts, the size of the overall EU budget for the year and other EU budget operational developments which will only emerge as the year progresses. As a result, all forecasts will be monitored and updated on an ongoing basis as new information becomes available.

The current Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) (2014-2020) provides a medium-term framework for financial programming and budgetary discipline by ensuring that EU spending is predictable and stays within agreed limits. The annual EU budget negotiations take place within the framework of the medium-term ceilings as established under the MFF.

As the current MFF is coming to the end of its lifespan, the European Commission is due to publish its formal proposal on the next MFF in May 2018.

While my Department has undertaken some initial preparations on the future MFF, it would not be prudent to comment on any individual elements without seeing the broader package within which they fit. My Department will continue to work closely with other Government Departments and will examine the proposal in detail upon its publication.