Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 October 2026
18. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way in which Ireland intends to support the deepening of EU-Canada trade and economic relations, including through CETA, in advance of the forthcoming EU-Canada summit. [69319/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU-Canada relationship is strong and based on a long history of close cooperation and shared values. Ireland greatly values Canada’s leadership and support across a broad range of political, foreign, and security policy issues, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Ireland has a strong history of supporting closer EU-Canada relations. The signature of the Strategic Partnership Agreement between the EU and Canada in October 2016 – together with the CETA Trade Agreement – marked the beginning of a new, dynamic chapter in the European Union's long-standing partnership with Canada. This relationship, alongside new security agreements, and participation in EU programmes means that Canada enjoys one of the most advanced bilateral relationships of any third country with the EU.
CETA is also a part of Ireland’s diversification story, in line with the Government’s Action Plan on Market Diversification. Almost a decade on from their signature, it is important – now more than ever – to get the EU-Canada Agreements ratified by the Member States. Ireland must play its part.
During our Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Ireland has sought to promote closer EU-Canada relations. This has included Canadian Ministers attending Informal Ministerial Council meetings, including the recent informal meeting of Foreign Affairs Ministers or Gymnich held in Ireland. In addition, in June the Taoiseach welcomed Prime Minister Carney on a visit to Ireland promoting continued strong ties between our two countries.
As the Deputy highlights in his question, the trading relationship is such an important part of the EU-Canada relationship, and will be central to the upcoming Informal Trade Council that I will host in Dublin, where there will be a separate event on the benefits and future outlook of CETA.
I also welcome the ongoing negotiations for an EU-Canada Digital Trade Agreement (DTA). A DTA with Canada will enable us to play a leading role in shaping international rules for digital trade. These rules will be transparent, predictable and allow a safer environment for businesses to trade digitally across borders while providing stronger protections for consumers online. I am optimistic that this can be advanced ahead of October’s summit.
