asked the Minister for Lands if his attention has been drawn to a report of a speech by Dr. Mansholt (details supplied) to the effect that foreigners can purchase land on equal terms with Irish citizens in the event of entry to the EEC; if the position in this regard will be clarified in the proposed White Paper on the terms of accession; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Membership of EEC
93.
I have seen the reports referred to by the Deputy, although I am led to believe that there was some misreporting involved.
In any event the position about freedom of establishment on land in the EEC context has been stated on many occasions. To-date only a very limited measure of freedom of establishment on land is operative in the EEC and this, it is considered, will not pose any serious problem for this country. A draft directive providing for full freedom of establishment on land has been with the EEC Council of Ministers since January, 1969, but has not yet been adopted. Under the consultation procedure settled with the EEC this country will be consulted before this directive is adopted. Ireland will press for the inclusion of such provisions as will meet the needs of the Irish situation.
The right of establishment on land will be dealt with in the White Paper.
Does the Minister not consider it most desirable that before the referendum on our entry into the EEC takes place this question should be clarified in view of the fact that there are thousands of smallholders and landowners whose vote may depend on a decision in regard to this matter? As a result of the purchase of Irish land by aliens in the event of our entry into the EEC we might reach the stage where the Irish will be labourers working for foreigners on their own land? Any doubts which exist in this regard should be cleared up before the referendum takes place.
Apart from the Deputy's speechmaking I agree this is a very serious matter. It is a matter I have referred to already on the Estimate and it is also one that will be referred to in the White Paper which will be published shortly. It is one in regard to which I can say I will be able to give the necessary assurances to all farmers that they would obviously require.
Has the Minister availed of every opportunity of making it crystal——
Do not be stupid.
——clear to Dr. Mansholt and all the others that a situation where foreigners can outbid the Irish for land purchase will not be tolerated——
The Deputy is making a statement.
——having regard to land history in this country? If there are any doubts in Dr. Mansholt's mind as to where Irish landowners stand in regard to this matter, there will be no question of a sellout——
The Deputy has the situation so confused he had better be quiet.
Will the Minister give us an undertaking that this question will be crystal clear before the people are asked to vote in a referendum?
The remaining questions will appear on next Tuesday's Order Paper unless Deputies are prepared to take written answers and they may apply for those.