2. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Finance the analysis undertaken to establish the impact that proposed US tariffs on the EU would have on Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4897/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

Baineann an cheist le taraifí agus an rud atá beartaithe ag na Stáit Aontaithe don Aontas Eorpach, Éire go háirithe. My question relates specifically to the tariffs. What analysis has been done on the impact of the proposed tariffs on the EU, given that Ireland, within the Union, is uniquely exposed, and in light of the policies we have adopted and our stance on Gaza. I realise things are changing by the minute regarding tariffs; they are promised and then not promised. What analysis has been done?

Sentiment score: 0.11

The figures on our trade with the US, including our exports there, are something else, not to mention the figures on the services we import, which are even double those figures. The figure I have for exports to the US in 2024 is €103 billion. I am not arguing over figures at all; the enormity of the figures speaks for itself. My question is on the analysis that has been done by the Minister. He is saying it has been undertaken and that the results will be published in the economic outlook in April. I would have thought we would have been considering this more acutely now, given that what we are talking about what happened before – in 2019, I believe – when tariffs were introduced and subsequently suspended by Mr. Biden. What did we learn from that? I agree with the Minister that our policy has brought enormous benefit to the country. However, we have been warned repeatedly that we are in serious danger of relying on a small few companies bringing in a substantial amount of tax. For a long time, we have been under pressure in respect of developing a different type of policy. Extending our policy might be better.

Sentiment score: 0.06

I would be delighted to clarify my views on anything if I had a little more time. Specifically on the question, I am asking the Minister what analysis has been done and he is clarifying he is undertaking it and that it will be published in April. I understand the dilemma because there might be no tariffs tomorrow and it is all changing. We are dealing with a bully here. I asked about the exposure of Ireland specifically. It is exposed for many reasons. One is that we are utterly reliant on one type of policy and approach. This has brought wealth to the country, but for a long time we have been warned that we must examine that, develop indigenous industry and consider other sources of employment. That is the part I am concerned about in the first instance. I am also very concerned that our stand on Palestine, which I am proud of and which reflects the Minister’s words, will be used in this. We are setting up a consultative forum and an advisory panel because industry in America will have a major influence on policy. I do not expect the Minister to answer my question in the minute available, but I am anxious that we remain an independent, sovereign State and diversify our employment.

Sentiment score: -0.03