asked the Minister for External Affairs why Ireland has not signed the European code of social security and protocol to the European code of social security; if it is proposed to sign them; and, if so, when.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Security Code.
55.
As indicated in my reply of 23rd July, 1969, to a similar question by Deputy O'Connor the signature and ratification of these instruments has required further consideration in the light of the recent Budget increases in social welfare benefits and of the projected improvement in social welfare schemes outlined in the Third Programme of Economic and Social Development. A final decision in the matter has not yet been taken but it is hoped that it will be possible to do so shortly.
Am I right in saying that the reason why Ireland has not yet signed the European code of social security and protocol is that our social standards are not such as would entitle Ireland at present to become a party to this convention? Am I to understand from the Minister's reply that it is proposed to have a look at our inadequate services for the purpose of seeing what steps should be taken to bring them up to the minimum European standards required before accession to this convention?
I do not know that the Deputy can call it the minimum European standard. There are certain requirements in Parts 2 to 10 which up to now we probably did not meet, but the recent changes in the Budget and the projected improvements give reason to believe that we should study the convention now that we may be able to fulfil the obligations.
Is the Minister in a position to say when we may meet these standards so that we can sign it?
I am not in a position to say that.
Does that mean we may not be able to sign it—that we may join the Common Market but we cannot sign this? Does that not put the Government in a dilemma?
We have to sign it.
I think that could be described as a non sequitur.