Following the Brexit talks, the key issue for Ireland will be the future relationship between the United Kingdom and the EU and how that will impact on us. Nobody yet knows the outcome of these negotiations and whether it may involve an amendment to the European treaties. If that is the case, it will necessitate a referendum here in Ireland. Can the Taoiseach confirm that it is not possible at this stage to rule out a referendum on the future relationships between the UK and the EU, in view of the importance of it for Ireland?

Deputy Fleming is well aware that a referendum on the EU treaties is only necessary in this country when the Attorney General of the day advises the Cabinet of the day that there is a transfer of sovereignty under the treaties. That is not envisaged here. What is envisaged is that the outcome of the negotiations will be for the United Kingdom to have as close as possible a relationship with the European Union, of which we are a member. However, given our traditional connections both with Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom on a bilateral basis we want to hold on to those very close trading, social and political relationships. It is only in those circumstances that this would apply, and that is not envisaged.