asked the Taoiseach if he considers that immediate observer status is necessary for this country at the discussions between the EFTA countries, in view of the fact that agriculture is now one of the main items on the agenda of that group of nations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EFTA Discussions.
3.
As I indicated in my reply to a question by the Deputy on the 30th May, the recent extensions of the bilateral agricultural arrangements between certain member-countries of the European Free Trade Association are of limited scope and we are keeping in close touch with developments in this and other fields.
In any case, there appears to be no provision for the attendance of observers at meetings of the EFTA Council.
Is the Taoiseach in a position to tell the House—the Minister for External Affairs was not, when I asked a question recently—what facets of agriculture are being discussed by the EFTA group, other than butter?
Certain arrangements of a bilateral kind within the group are involved. As far as I know, there are no general arrangements being discussed.
The Minister for External Affairs told me in the House a fortnight ago that discussions were going on in regard to agriculture and that he was not in a position to state what matters were being discussed, other than butter. Is the Taoiseach now in a position to tell the House that or not?
The only matter discussed of interest to us is butter.
I am explaining to the Deputy that there has been no general agreement within the EFTA Council on matters relating to agriculture. There are discussions between individual countries, members of EFTA, in relation to agricultural matters. The only matter arising on these talks so far of any interest to this country is butter.
Surely it has a tremendous bearing on our own trade?
Has any suggestion reached the Taoiseach that discussions are proceeding also in regard to bacon and of the possibility of a quota system for bacon being introduced in the British market?
I have heard no suggestion that such a topic has been discussed in the EFTA Council.
If the Minister feels it inexpedient to answer now, I accept that, but can he say are there negotiations proceeding anywhere which would operate to create a quota position in the British market for bacon from this country, from Denmark and the other EFTA countries which are bacon suppliers to that market?
That is obviously a question of which notice should be given, if a considered reply is desired.