asked the Minister for External Affairs whether he is aware of the promise made by his predecessor in the Dáil on the 25th February, 1931, that reports from the representatives of the Saorstát in foreign countries as to their trade activities would be published from time to time; whether any such reports have yet been received; and, if so, whether it is intended to publish them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Saorstát Trade in Foreign Countries.
I am aware of the promise made by my predecessor. Two such reports were presented to the Dáil and Seanad, one from the High Commissioner in Great Britain on the 15th June, 1931, and one from the Consul-General in New York on the 24th June, 1931.
It is my intention to have such trade reports published annually, if possible, from each of our representatives abroad. We receive very frequent reports from these representatives on trade matters, but the great majority of them refer to particular subjects and to the constantly changing character of foreign markets due to quota, tariff and other protective measures. Trade reports relating to foreign countries published by Governments are usually of a general character and require a good deal of time for their preparation.
Owing to the urgent nature of the work on which our representatives are now engaged, it is not possible to say when the next general reports will be available, but I shall endeavour to present to the Dáil and Seanad reports from all our representatives for the year 1932.