It’s 50 years since Ireland joined what was then the European Economic Community or EEC. We joined as the poorest member of that block in 1973 and now we’re one of the richest on paper at least.

This week Breakfast Business will be broadcasting live from the European parliament here in Strasbourg and examining what Ireland has lost and gained over the past half century and what more needs to be done at an EU level for companies and consumers in Ireland.

Speaking to Joe this morning was Patricia Callan who is the Director of Financials Services Ireland which represents the banks and fintech companies that are based in Ireland.