(South Tipperary) asked the Taoiseach whether any recent correspondence or negotiations have taken place between this country and (a) members of the Common Market, and (b) countries seeking membership; and, if so, the nature of such exchanges or negotiations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Membership of EEC.
1.
There have been no recent negotiations with the Governments of the Common Market countries on Ireland's application but we are, of course, continuing to keep in close touch with the Common Market countries and the other countries seeking membership on all developments of interest in relation to the European Economic Community and our application for membership.
Does the Tánaiste think we will be in the EEC by 1970? What are the prospects? Has he any idea which year we may join?
I am not entering into the realms of prophecy on that matter.
Is the Tánaiste aware this has been done on numerous occasions in the past? It was said we would join in 1962, then it was said we would join in 1967 and then in 1970. Do the Government think we will be in the EEC by 1975 or 1980?
The Deputy's memory is deceiving him.
Certainly not. There were different prophecies made in the past but the Government were as wrong in them as they have been in others.
Question No. 2.
2.
(South Tipperary) asked the Taoiseach what reports were prepared in respect of Britain's and this country's rejected applications for membership to the Common Market; and whether such reports can be, or have been laid before the House.
As Deputies are aware, the Council of Ministers of the European Communities at their meeting on the 18th and 19th December, 1967, were unable to reach agreement on the opening at that stage of negotiations with the applicant countries. Prior to that meeting two reports on the applications were prepared by the Commission of the European Communities. The first of these, dated 29th September, 1967, expressed the opinion of the Commission on each of the applications. This report was made available in the Library in December, last.
A second report, which was made orally to the Council, dealt with the consequences of monetary and economic policy measures taken by the British Government subsequent to the completion of the Commission's first report. A translation of the second report is now available in the Library.
Since the Council meeting of 18th and 19th December various proposals, as the House will be aware, have been put forward for the establishment of a closer link between the applicant countries and the Communities. In a report of the 2nd April, 1968, the Commission dealt with the proposals which had been made up to then. Copies of this report, also, are now available in the Library.