EU-US Trade links crucial for Ireland as Brexit looms – Sean Kelly MEP

MEP for Ireland South and leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament Sean Kelly has highlighted the importance of EU-US trade relations following the Taoiseach’s visit to Washington DC for St. Patrick’s Day.

Speaking from Dublin today (Friday) where Mr. Kelly was attending the student strike for Climate Action, he outlined the need to reinforce Irish representation in EU-US relations.

“It is especially crucial that Ireland has strong representation due to our close and historical relationship with the States, and the many millions of those who live in the States but claim Irish ancestry.

“This is all the more important with the current uncertainty around Brexit. The US is Ireland’s main non-EU export destination, accounting for over a quarter of our total exports last year.

Mr. Kelly expressed his disappointment at the Parliament’s failure to endorse new negotiations with the United States.

“We need to be looking beyond the limited time span of the Trump administration and towards the future of our relationship with the US.

“I am delighted to represent Fine Gael on the Parliament’s delegation for relations with the US as it is vitally important that Ireland’s interests are accounted for, particularly now in any EU-US trade relations.

“It is certainly in the long-term interests of Ireland and the EU to strengthen our good relationships with the US and continue to encourage trade between our countries,” he concluded.