asked the Taoiseach whether any decision has yet been reached by the Government as to Ireland's membership of the European Common Market or the European Free Trade Association, or its associateship with either group; and, if not, if he will indicate approximately when a decision on the matter will be taken.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Membership of European Trade Groups.
1.
There is nothing which I could usefully add to my reply to a question addressed to me in this House on 21st June. I stated then that the Dáil would be kept informed of all major developments in the field of trade.
It would not be possible, at this stage, to attempt to forecast when circumstances may make it advisable for us to take decisions in these matters.
Would the Taoiseach say, in pursuance of his promise to keep the Dáil informed, what steps he would take in that connection if events necessitated or rendered desirable some association with or membership of either of those two groups while the Dáil is in recess?
In the first instance I think that is highly unlikely but if circumstances should arise which required taking a decision—which as I pointed out could not be implemented without the consent of the Dáil—then a special meeting of the Dáil would certainly be necessary.
The Taoiseach does not anticipate the event will necessitate that?
My guess is that it is highly unlikely that any event, which would require a decision, will occur within the next few months.