asked the Taoiseach whether his attention has been drawn to a report of 30th May of a statement made by an official of the Western European Union that Ireland could not join the Common Market as a full member since she was not a member of NATO; and if, in the light of this statement, he will add anything to his own statement of 25th May on the subject.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Common Market.
1.
I have seen the report to which the Deputy refers. The statement mentioned is, in my opinion, without foundation. The Deputy is aware that it has been contradicted by the German Federal Foreign Minister at a press conference here on 31st May, which was reported in the national dailies of 1st June.
As the Deputy notes, I have already dealt with this matter in replying to questions on 25th May, and there is no point in my saying anything further on the subject.
Could the Taoiseach at this stage say whether or not Ireland's decision on joining the Common Market will be taken independently of any decision that may be taken by Great Britain in the matter?
I could not say that. Obviously, our decision must have regard to all relevant circumstances and one very relevant circumstance would be the prospect of membership of the Common Market being extended to include other countries.
Would the Taoiseach say whether the British Government have kept him in touch with discussions which are obviously taking place between that Government and the Common Market group?
The Deputy must have more information about that than I have. I am not aware of any such discussions of a formal kind.
Would the Taoiseach then try to keep in touch with the daily papers?
The British decision, therefore, in regard to the Common Market is not the primary consideration——
It is a very relevant consideration.
Is the Taoiseach now in a position, or is there any possibility of his being in a position, to inform us at this stage as to whether there is any prospect of the United States of America becoming associated with the Common Market and, if so, would that not be a relevant consideration for this country also?
I have not even heard of the suggestion before.
If that suggestion were forthcoming, I take it, it would also be a relevant consideration for this country?
Certainly.