asked the Minister for External Affairs when the text of the new Air Agreement with Britain will be submitted for ratification to Dáil Éireann.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Agreement.
Mr. Lemass
The agreement to which the Deputy refers is an exchange of notes amending the Air Services Agreement between the Irish and British Governments of the 5th April, 1946. The notes were exchanged by the British Ambassador and myself on the 31st August, 1956. This exchange was not subject to subsequent ratification by either Government.
The requirement of Article 29.5.1º of the Constitution that every international agreement to which the State becomes a party shall be laid before Dáil Éireann, was complied with, in the case of this exchange of notes, on the 13th September, 1956.
Mr. Lemass
In view of the fact that the original agreement was submitted to the Dáil for ratification, does the Minister not think that this important modification of it should also be submitted?
I think the Deputy's mind is at fault there. The original agreement was submitted for discussion, but it did not require to be ratified. In this case, as the Deputy is no doubt aware, where an agreement does not involve a charge on public funds it has not to be approved of by the Dáil. This agreement, in compliance with Article 29.5.1º of the Constitution, to which I have referred, was laid before the Dáil.
Mr. Lemass
Is it proposed to submit it to the Dáil for discussion?
Not by me, at any rate.