Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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225. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to protect Irish agrifood interests at EU level in the upcoming EU-US trade discussions, following the US outlining objectives that put a strong emphasis on negotiating tariffs and non-tariff barriers for agriculture (details supplied). [3696/19]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Ireland's position on increased market access into the EU for beef or any other food products from the US or other third countries is well-known. I will vigorously defend the interests of the Irish and EU food sectors against this outcome from any trade negotiations that would have negative consequences for the sector.

The EU Commission has made its position very clear from the outset that they will not discuss market access/tariff reductions with the food/agriculture sector. Furthermore, Commissioner Malmstrom has indicated that the EU will not formally start negotiations with the US if the United States Trade Representative insists on including agriculture in its negotiating mandate.