asked the Taoiseach if he will give details of a proposal of the EEC Commission to establish a European Development Corporation with special responsibility for underdeveloped regions; and if Ireland will be afforded priority for any aid forthcoming from this new body, in view of its degree of underdevelopment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - European Development Corporation.
1.
I am arranging to place a translation of the relevant commission document in the Library.
The commission's proposals are being examined at present and it would be premature to comment on them. I should point out that at this stage they represent proposals only and have not been adopted by the council.
Can the Taoiseach say when will he be in a position to tell us what will accrue to this country?
I could not possibly tell the Deputy when they will be adopted by the council but I believe they hope to be in a position to do so before 1st October next. I could not be expected at this stage to indicate to what extent this country will benefit.
Has the Taoiseach any idea?
Not yet, because the the fund has not yet been established.