Vol. 199 No. 4
andMr. McQuillan asked the Taoiseach if, in view of his statements that no matter what the outcome of the EEC negotiations free trade was inevitable, it is the Government's intention, irrespective of the outcome of these negotiations, to adhere to the tariff dismantlement policy suggested to the EEC as the rhythm most likely to suit the Irish economy.
2.
andMr. McQuillan asked the Taoiseach whether the Government, in order to preserve their right to take whatever steps they consider necessary to aid underdeveloped areas in the country and safeguard existing industries, will, while retaining the present trading agreements with Britain, at the same time seek to negotiate favourable trading agreements with the EEC.
3.
andMr. McQuillan asked the Taoiseach whether, in view of the continued deferment of the British application for membership of EEC, and in order to curtail uncertainty in business and industry, he proposes to ask that Ireland's application for full membership of the EEC be taken and dealt with immediately.
With your permission, Sir, I propose to take Questions Nos. 1, 2 and 3 together.
I have already indicated that, as soon as a clear situation emerges out of the crisis in the negotiations for Britain's application for membership of the European Economic Community, it is my intention to make a statement of Government policy on our position.
Will the Taoiseach give Government time for discussion of the issues arising out of any breakdown in the negotiations, as they affect our application for membership, as soon as he is in a position to make a statement?
When a statement such as I visualise is made, discussion of it will certainly be in order.
Is the Taoiseach in a position to indicate when such a statement is likely to be made?
No, I am not.
May we take it that such a statement will be made by the Taoiseach first and foremost in this House and not outside it?
Am I correct in understanding that the Taoiseach, in the course of question and answer last week, indicated that as soon as the situation at Brussels had clarified itself and the matter could advantageously be discussed by this House, he would make a statement and the whole question could appropriately be debated here as to the policy of our country in the new situation?
That is my intention.
