asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he has had, or proposes to have, consultations with the owners of Irish-owned and registered coastal or cross-Channel shipping of 1,000 tons gross and under as to the effects of this country's possible entry into the European Economic Community upon their operations; and, if so, what progress has been made in such consultations; and what action, if any, it is proposed to take to meet increased competition in such forms of transportation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Common Market: Irish Shipping Consultations.
21.
The Treaty of Rome establishing the European Economic Community does not at present apply to sea transport. As we already permit full commercial freedom to all vessels trading to and from Irish ports the application of the Treaty to sea transport could not increase competition nor would it be likely to create any special difficulty.
It is yet too soon to discern precisely what changes in the pattern of our trade with the Continent may follow our entry into the Common Market but my Department is keeping in touch with developments in consultation with the other Departments concerned with a view to ensuring that any necessary shipping services are provided and that Irish shipping companies will have every opportunity to compete for any new trade which may arise. It is proposed to have consultations with the Irish owners concerned as soon as any relevant information becomes available.