5.2 Brussels – European Union

5.2 Brussels – European Union

Brexit will remain a significant challenge for the Irish economy into the foreseeable future. The Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) concluded by the EU and the UK on 24th December 2020 resets the relationship between the EU and the UK. The Agreement provides for tariff-free, quota-free trade and for sectoral cooperation in a number of important areas. The departure of one of Ireland’s most important trading partners from the Single Market and Customs Union from 1st January 2021 constitutes a significant shock to the Irish economy as businesses adapt to the new trading reality. This means significant and lasting change, particularly for businesses moving goods to, from or through the UK, excluding Northern Ireland. The Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland means that no new procedures will apply to goods moving between Northern Ireland and Ireland (and other Member States of the European Union).

As a small open economy Ireland’s financial fortunes are largely dependent on international trade and influenced by global markets. It is vital, therefore, that Ireland can negotiate and implement overseas trading partnerships. Membership of the European Union enables Ireland to do so in solidarity with other Member States. Furthermore, by having staff based in the Irish Permanent Representation in Brussels (PRB), the Department can work to ensure that Ireland’s position on individual trade, investment and innovation matters are promoted, secured and protected.

Six members of the Department are currently seconded to the Permanent Representation with responsibility for the trade, competitiveness and employment agendas. By working closely with colleagues in Dublin, the Brussels based staff ensure that the Department can continue to successfully carry out its leadership and coordination role in respect of the EU Trade, EU Competitiveness and Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs (EPSCO) Councils and in strengthening the Single Market. Officials from this Department engage proactively at EU institutional level and with our EU partners to ensure that Departmental EU priority measures are advanced. They support our Ministers in their pursuit of achieving domestic and EU Policy outcomes which, in turn, enable us to achieve our enterprise, competitiveness, single market and employment goals.

In working to realise its goals, the Department has very strong EU engagement in a wide range of EU trade policy fields and takes the lead on Ireland’s trade and competitiveness policy, including at EU and WTO level. Working in partnership across Government and with our EU and international partners, we represent Ireland at EU level to influence emerging policies that will support Irish jobs, competitiveness and innovation.

The Department has officers at Counsellor and Trade Attaché level in Brussels, Geneva, London, Berlin, Washington and Beijing. The focus of these posts varies according to the location, with some concentrated primarily on trade development and assistance, while others are focused on representation of Ireland’s interests in EU and international organisations.

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