Vol. 561 No. 4
111 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will publish an annual written report outlining Ireland's annual negotiating position in the formulation of European Union policy positions in advance of World Trade Organisation meetings. [4401/03]
The WTO declaration agreed at the fourth trade ministerial meeting in Doha in November 2001 provides for a new round of multilateral trade liberalisation negotiations across a broad spectrum of trade-related issues. The declaration, one of the key documents from the meeting, outlines a wide-ranging work programme and is the blueprint for negotiations which are scheduled to conclude by 2005.
The European Union negotiates as a single entity at the WTO. Such negotiations are carried out by the EU Commission acting in accordance with the mandates and policy guidelines decided by the EU Council of Ministers on the basis of Commission proposals. These proposals are developed by a number of committees, which include the EU Trade Committee, also known as the Article 133 Committee. Ireland participates actively in these forums with a view to ensuring that our interests are promoted in the development and implementation of the common commercial policy.
The launch of the new round has resulted in substantial consultations with a wide range of interested parties on issues that cross the full spectrum of WTO trade matters. Extensive consultations and dialogue have been undertaken and continues with Departments of State and agencies under their aegis, with business and with wider civil society. For example, in the context of a comprehensive report which has now been finalised by Forfás on recommended negotiating objectives to be pursued by Irish trade negotiators under the new round, there have been extensive consultations with a large cross-section of interested parties, including business. In addition, I and my officials met last year and continue to be available to meet with interested groups and stakeholders on trade matters.
