Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2026
101. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to provide an update on recent engagements of her Department, and of the Government, with the government of the United States; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8652/26]
View answer132. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline Ireland’s current diplomatic, political and economic engagement with the United States; the way in which Ireland is advancing its foreign policy priorities and values within that relationship, including on international law and conflict prevention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8757/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 132 together.
The Programme for Government reiterates our commitment to strengthen our political, cultural, economic and trade relationship with the United States at all levels. Regular, high-level engagement with the U.S. is a priority for the Government.
I am visiting Washington this week, to meet a range of senior U.S. interlocutors, in the Administration and on Capitol Hill, as well as media, business, academic and diaspora contacts.
The Tánaiste recently undertook a visit to California where he met with Governor Gavin Newsom, underscoring Ireland's economic partnership with the region which has been driven by close collaboration in sectors such as technology, life sciences and pharmaceuticals.
In recent months we have opened our new Embassy building in Washington, D.C., a new Ireland House in Chicago, and strengthened our diplomatic team in the U.S. These investments underscore our commitment to the importance of this relationship. The up-coming St. Patrick's Day programme will provide further opportunity to engage at the highest levels across the U.S.
On foreign policy matters and values, the Government continues to engage and constructively advocate for Irish positions. Ireland has welcomed the contribution of the U.S. to end the conflict in Gaza and efforts to implement the Gaza Peace Plan.
The Government, together with our EU partners, has responded to recent events, including regarding Greenland and tariff threats—by demonstrating unity behind our fundamental principles of international law, territorial integrity and national sovereignty.
