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Minister of State for European Affairs, Dara Murphy TD, begins a visit to Italy today for a series of meetings on Brexit.

The visit is taking place as part of the Government's ongoing programme of strategic engagement with EU partners, in advance of the UK triggering of Article 50, now confirmed for 29 March, marking the beginning of the Brexit negotiations process.

As part of the visit Minister of State Murphy will hold a bilateral meeting with his counterpart, State Secretary for European Affairs Sandro Gozi. He will also meet with key representatives from Italy’s Parliamentary Committees engaging on Brexit and on the wider EU agenda.

Speaking before his departure, the Minister said:

“I welcome this opportunity to travel to Italy, a key partner around the EU table, to discuss EU27 preparations for Brexit and of course, Ireland's unique concerns namely: mitigating the impact on our economy; protecting the peace process in Northern Ireland; maintaining the Common Travel Area and; securing the future of the EU.

"With the triggering of Article 50 by the UK confirmed for 29 March and as approach the start of the negotiations, it is crucial that to our engagement with EU partners continues. The Italian government has a strong understanding of our specific concerns and I look forward to discussing these further with Minister Gozi as well as the EU’s preparations for the complex and challenging negotiations that lie ahead. Ireland and the EU have prepared well and we are ready for the negotiations."

Minister Murphy continued:

"Taking place just days before Rome fittingly hosts the 60th anniversary of the foundation of EU, my visit will also afford a welcome opportunity to discuss the wider EU agenda, including the Digital Single Market.”

During his visit to the Italian capital, Minister Murphy will also attend the EU Digital Days Summit, co-hosted by the Italian Government and the European Commission.