Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2026
29. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which Ireland is engaging at EU level to secure investment and trade opportunities that benefit rural regions; the steps being taken to ensure that areas like Laois can maximise the economic benefits of EU programmes and external trade agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38295/26]
View answerAs Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, I support an ambitious EU trade agenda that promotes new Free Trade Agreements, and secures provisions regarding the protection of our agricultural sector and rural communities.
As a member of the EU, Ireland has access to the largest trade network in the world, with individual agreements covering trade relations with over 70 countries which allow preferential market access for Irish companies. That network of agreements is being continuously strengthened, with several currently under negotiation, including with the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and the UAE. This is critical as we look to diversify our critical supply chains, increase our trade flows and open up export markets for Irish companies. This includes argifood exporters, but also agribusinesses and manufacturing companies that are based in our regions.
In addition, I welcome the recent conclusions of the EU-India and EU-Australia Free Trade Agreements. These trade deals will deliver real opportunities for Irish farmers and will help to support Irish market diversification, build economic resilience and boost our competitiveness. At the same time, my Department is working to ensure that the concerns of Irish farmers and SMEs are understood at the EU level so that they can avail of these opportunities.
Our enterprise agencies work to ensure that the opportunities available under the network of FTAs are pursued. Enterprise Ireland works to ensure that rural regions maximise the economic benefits of EU programmes and external trade agreements. Under its 2025-2029 Strategy, EI is leveraging EU structural funding to support growth in regional areas. 69% of new jobs created in EI-supported companies in 2025 were located outside of Dublin, demonstrating a strong regional impact.
Additionally, IDA Ireland’s client companies directly employ more than 165,000 people in regional locations across the country. This regional strategy has a proven track record of success and IDA Ireland is committed to building on this in the years ahead.
