asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether it is this country's intention to seek a postponement of the next tariff reduction under the provisions of the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Area Agreement; and whether, in view of the Government's intention to pursue EEC entry, relief from tariff reductions will be sought for those industries which have been hard hit and which now need rapid capital investment in preparation for EEC entry.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Tariff Reductions.
106.
It is not the Government's intention to seek a postponement of the general tariff reduction due to take place on 1st July, 1971, under the provisions of Article 1 (5) of the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Area Agreement. However, consultations with the British Government are proceeding with a view to the provision of special treatment in accordance with the terms of the agreement for certain industries in which particular difficulties have been experienced, or are threatened, as a result of the operation of the agreement. As I have already indicated the issue of a statement on the matter is imminent.