Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 March 2026
6. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the proposed EU-Australia trade agreement; whether there is provision for investor courts in the proposed agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22611/26]
View answer12. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on the EU- Australia Free Trade Agreement; her views on the likely impact this agreement might have on Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23033/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 6 and 12 together.
In the face of unprecedented global economic uncertainty, it is important for Ireland and the EU to diversify our markets with new, reliable global partners. Ireland remains committed to free and open markets.
Recent developments in the international trading environment have highlighted the importance of market diversification, including by finalising a number of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Ireland fully supports the EU’s ambitious suite of FTAs as we look to diversify our critical supply chains and open up export markets for Irish companies.
The European Commission is working towards delivering a comprehensive and balanced FTA between the EU and Australia with momentum building towards a possible conclusion of the deal this week. Australia represents an attractive market for Irish exports and the FTA will deliver areas of tariff reduction that will benefit Irish industry.
An FTA with Australia would provide market access on preferential terms in a number of strategically important sectors including pharmaceuticals, chemicals and engineering with mechanical and electrical machinery manufactures set to benefit. At the same time, throughout negotiations Ireland and other Member States consistently highlighted the need to defend our sensitivities.
The currently proposed FTA contains an investment chapter and provisions for state-to-state dispute resolution through consultation and mutual agreement, but does not include investor-state dispute resolution mechanisms.
