Statement from the Tánaiste on his meeting with Secretary Lutnick

"I was pleased to meet with Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick today in Washington D.C.

"It was a timely, valuable and substantive meeting that took place shortly after President Trump’s latest announcement in respect of tariffs. We discussed that announcement and the likely next steps.

"I welcomed the fact that the President has announced the suspension of the higher tariffs announced on April 2 for a period of 90 days. This I know will come as a relief to many businesses in Ireland.

"I recognise that further engagement and clarification is required between the European Commission and the administration on the detail of this.

"We also had an opportunity for a substantive engagement on pharma and I outlined the mutually beneficial role that the sector plays for Ireland and the United States.

"During the meeting, I also outlined the dynamic interconnected economic relationship between Ireland, Europe and the United States. I conveyed our commitment through the EU to comprehensive negotiations that would address a broad range of issues.

"The meeting with Secretary Lutnick has confirmed my view that there is an openness on the part of the US to engage in such a process.

"I outlined my view that Ireland, as part of the EU, wants to play a constructive role and will continue to be a voice for calm and measured engagement in the time ahead."