Sinéad Gibney (Dublin Rathdown, Social Democrats)
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185. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the cause of the breakdown of negotiations between the EU and the US which has resulted in the imposition of tariffs on the EU by the current US administration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40673/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The Government has taken note of the letter sent by the US to the EU on 12 July. Notwithstanding the letter, the facts remain that the deadline for talks is 1 August.

The EU continues to negotiate with the US in good faith. The European Commission has been clear that they are working towards the conclusion of a deal as soon as possible and in advance of the deadline of 1 August. The Government strongly supports these efforts. The EU is at the negotiating table and will remain there. Negotiations are at an advanced stage. Now is the time to redouble our efforts and to seek to achieve positive results in the time available.

The intention has been to limit the impact of the existing 10% baseline tariff but also to avoid any additional tariffs being introduced. We want to reach an agreement in principle which will give much needed certainty to businesses operating on both sides of the Atlantic. In this framework my priority is to achieve zero for zero arrangements for as many sectors as possible.

The focus remains on negotiation and pursing a positive agenda with the US. Our objective remains agreement on a mutually beneficial deal that works for both sides. A negotiated outcome is the best way forward. However, the Government understands the need for the EU to undertake further internal preparations in case negotiations are unsuccessful. This is a sensible and measured approach.