asked the Minister for External Affairs whether the Government will now sign and ratify the European Convention on the Punishment of Road Traffic Offences (1964), which was concluded in the framework of the Council of Europe; and, if not, why.
Written Answers. - Council of Europe Conventions.
310.
A contracting party to this convention undertakes among other things to prosecute its residents in respect of traffic offences committed in the territory of another contracting party. Ratification of the convention, therefore, raises an important question of principle in relation to the extension of the territorial jurisdiction of the State in criminal matters. This is a question which requires very careful consideration before any steps are taken. The Government have not yet determined their attitude in the matter.
311.
asked the Minister for External Affairs whether the Government will now sign and ratify the European Convention on the supervision of conditionally sentenced or conditionally released offenders which was concluded in the framework of the Council of Europe; and, if not, why.
Although signed on behalf of a number of states, this convention has only been ratified by France. It will come into force on three ratifications. The Government are still considering their position in relation to the convention. Legislation would be necessary in order to become party.
312.
asked the Minister for External Affairs whether the Government will now sign and ratify the European Convention on Consular Functions which was concluded in the framework of the Council of Europe; and, if not, why.
The European Convention on Consular Functions was opened for signature in December, 1967, but so far has been signed on behalf of only six members of the Council of Europe. Consequently it has not entered into force and has not, in fact, been ratified by any member state. The convention is not of substantial interest to this country and it is not proposed to sign it at this stage. As the Deputy may be aware, the State is party to the United Nations Convention on Consular Relations.
313.
asked the Minister for External Affairs whether the Government will now sign and ratify the European Convention on Information on Foreign Law which was concluded in the framework of the Council of Europe; if not, why; and if having regard to the growing need of knowledge in this field, the Government will make special grants to law schools and libraries to assist in increasing information on foreign law.
The Government consider that it would be desirable to become a party to this convention. However, some technical arrangements and possibly the enactment of implementing legislation would be required before they can do so. These matters are at present under consideration. So far as the question of grants to law schools and libraries to assist in increasing information on foreign law is concerned, this is primarily a matter for the Minister for Education. However, I understand that the making of the necessary provision for this purpose in the case of law schools and libraries should be considered as coming within the provision of the normal functions of the governing authorities of the relevant institutions. Accordingly, the required expenditure should be regarded as an appropriate charge on their general income.