Ruairí Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

140. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to detail the engagement there has been with his Department and stakeholders in industries affected by US tariff threats; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32379/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Since April, most Irish exports to the US have been subject to an additional 10% tariff. The imposition of these tariff has had a negative impact on all types of businesses, from multinational companies to small, medium and micro enterprises. Our position has always been clear: tariffs threaten the hugely successful EU-US and Ireland-US relationships and are bad for business, bad for consumers and bad for workers on both side of the Atlantic. Currently, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors are exempt from US tariffs. 

In this incredibly uncertain and challenging international trading environment I recognise how important it is to engage with domestic stakeholders affected by US tariff threats.  The Government Trade Forum, established in February 2025, comprises Government Ministers, State Agencies, business organisations, trade union and other representative groups and was set up to facilitate engagement with key domestic stakeholders on latest and emerging trade developments and opportunities.

On Wednesday 2 July, I chaired the sixth meeting of the Forum which focused on protecting Irish jobs and the economy. At that meeting I updated members on my recent engagement with Commissioner Šefcovic and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Minister Paschal Donohoe T.D. presented updated modelling from the Department of Finance of the impacts arising from recent trade developments including on tariffs.   The Forum also had an opportunity to consider its Work Plan and received an update on the development of the Action Plan on Market Diversification. There was also a presentation on Ireland’s new national semiconductor strategy ‘Silicon Island’ and a discussion with sectoral representatives. 

In addition to the Forum, my Department is also in frequent direct contact with key stakeholders regarding the impact of US tariffs and potential EU rebalancing measures on key sectors and the wider economy.

Following the developments of the last few days, the Government will continue and intensify its engagement and outreach with domestic stakeholders.