Brexit and Irish relations
The Leader returned to the House of Lords Brexit report, stressing the challenge Brexit poses and the need for common ground under the EU framework.
The Leader should not quote too much from the report as he might spoil our Christmas reading.
Comment on this
I will put it to one side. I will hide it from the Cathaoirleach in order that he will not see it. Brexit presents a huge challenge for us. As the Minister said yesterday, we will not have the ability to have a bilateral relationship between the United Kingdom and Ireland-----
Comment on this
-----but under the umbrella of the European Union, it is important that we all find common ground. Any negotiation must recognise the importance to this state of the North-South axis and the axis of the North and this island with England, Scotland and Wales. It is impressive that this is one of six reports that have been published. It is one that we will discuss at the Committee on Procedure and Privileges tomorrow. I hope the House can play an active role in that regard. There will be no objection from this side of the House to any of us being able to play a significant role in the matters to be discussed related to Brexit.
Senator Ray Butler spoke about the Sellafield plant. I will be happy to ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Denis Naughten, to come to the House to discuss the matter, as well as the growth in the number of nuclear power plants in the United Kingdom. The Senator has raised the issue before in the House.
Senators Máire Devine and David Norris spoke about the Oxfam report.
I will remind the Senators of what is stated in it. I reject any allegation that Ireland is a tax haven because it is not. What the report actually states is-----