Tánaiste Simon Harris has warned that an impending “economic shock” from upcoming US tariffs will strike at a “critical juncture” as the Ukraine war continues.
US President Donald Trump revealed plans to impose a 25% tariff on all cars and light trucks not built on US soil, effective 2 April—a date Trump has dubbed “liberation day”—when he also plans to announce “reciprocal tariffs” on EU goods.
Speaking today, Harris said the EU was entering a period of “major uncertainty”, warning that a “worsening trade dispute” would have negative consequences and require “intensive” efforts from Ireland and the EU.
“This economic shock will arrive at a critical time for Europe,” Harris said, highlighting the ongoing war in Ukraine and growing challenges to the continent’s security.
Harris also emphasized that the tariffs coincide with Ireland’s housing shortages and infrastructure deficits, adding to domestic concerns.
Amid these challenges, Harris stressed the importance of ensuring the Dáil can function correctly. He condemned recent aggressive behaviour in the chamber linked to the speaking rights row, stating that such actions have brought politics into disrepute.
“The behaviour toward the Ceann Comhairle, Verona Murphy, is unacceptable and should not be tolerated,” Harris said.
He criticized those who refused to respect the Dáil Chair or the vote outcome, calling it inconsistent with how democracy should operate.
Harris said the dispute had gone on for too long and declared that Fine Gael would vote in Murphy’s confidence amid an upcoming no-confidence motion brought forward by the opposition.
“I would encourage all members of the Oireachtas to reflect on their recent actions,” he urged, emphasizing the need for a “functioning Dáil” and more proportionate responses to political disagreements.
Meanwhile, Ireland’s EU Commissioner, Michael McGrath, warned that “tit-for-tat tariff wars” would only result in “losers”.
McGrath described Trump’s tariff decision as “deeply regrettable” and stressed that tariffs harm businesses, consumers, and workers alike.
He confirmed that the EU remains open to further engagement with the Trump administration but warned that if dialogue fails, the EU will act to “protect European businesses”.
