Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 July 2026
69. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to provide an update on the progress made to date in relation to the ratification of the EU-Canada Comprehensive and Economic Trade Agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49804/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe ratification of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the EU (‘CETA’) is a priority for Government. The 2025 Programme for Government contains a specific commitment to ratify this important free trade agreement.
Ratifying CETA is a priority for the Government against the background of today’s volatile international trading environment. Such agreements are vital for Ireland’s credibility as a trading nation and as a favourable destination for foreign investment, supporting the growth of Irish businesses including small and medium-sized businesses, and creating jobs. The ratification of CETA is also a key priority for Canada, which has been repeatedly raised with Ireland by Canadian partners.
On 17 June 2026, the President signed the Arbitration (Amendment) Bill into law. The Arbitration (Amendment) Act 2026 is a key part of ongoing efforts to take forward the ratification of CETA and other international agreements containing similar investment dispute resolution provisions.
The Act amends the Arbitration Act 2010, introducing a new procedure in Irish law for the enforcement in Ireland of awards made by tribunals established under CETA and similar international agreements, in order to address concerns identified by the Supreme Court in the Costello judgments.
With respect to the recent High Court challenge to the ratification of CETA, the Government is engaged with the Office of the Attorney General on next steps. The Government remains committed to the ratification of CETA as soon as possible, as set out in the programme for Government. In this context, the Government will seek to ensure that this case proceeds as efficiently as possible.
