asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that it has been stated that an arrangement has been come to, or is about to be come to, between the Governments of Saorstát Eireann and Northern Ireland whereby the existing customs barrier is to be abolished, and if he will say whether any negotiations in this connection have taken or are about to take place.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - NORTHERN CUSTOMS BARRIER.
LIAM MAC SIOGHAIRD
I have not seen the statement referred to by the Deputy. It is obvious that no such negotiations can take place with the Government of Northern Ireland while that Government has its present status and, accordingly, the statement referred to by the Deputy is entirely without foundation. I may add, for the information of the Deputy, that it is not the intention of this Government, in any way, to meet the wishes of those who call for the abolition of the customs barrier.