asked the Minister for External Affairs if he will state with reference to the conference on the law of the sea regarding the extension of territorial waters, why Ireland has not been represented at ministerial level in view of the fact that many other countries have been so represented.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Extension of Territorial Waters.
The conference in question was not convened at ministerial level and many countries are not represented by Ministers.
Our delegation consists of senior officials from the Departments of External Affairs, Defence and Lands. I am in constant touch with the leader of the delegation and if it should emerge during the proceedings, which are expected to last nine weeks, that the presence of a Minister is necessary for some period, I am sure the Government would have no hesitation in nominating a Minister to attend.