asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether any changes have been made in the Government's "Buy Irish" policy in the light of EEC obligations to put out public contracts over a certain amount for tender to non-nationals; and whether any instructions or documentation have been sent to bodies such as the NAIDA in this connection.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Buy Irish Policy.
50.
As the Deputy is, no doubt, aware from the White Paper on the Accession of Ireland to the European Communities, the existing practice of giving preference to Irish goods in public contracts will cease two years after this country enters the EEC. It is considered that the "Buy Irish Campaign" as at present conducted by the National Development Association, which is the successor of the NAIDA does not conflict with EEC obligations and there was, therefore, no need to issue any instruction to that body on the matter.