asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the agreement between the EEC and Cyprus will affect trade between that country and Ireland with particular reference to the export of seed potatoes and the import of early potatoes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Trade with Cyprus.
9.
The agreement establishing an Association between the EEC and Cyprus, which came into force on 1st June of this year, will in general, have the effect of progressively liberalising trade between that country and Ireland.
In so far as potatoes are concerned, this country's traditional export trade in seed potatoes will continue as heretofore. In normal circumstances we do not import potatoes. However, there is nothing in the agreement which prevents us from maintaining our present import licensing system in respect of early potatoes from Cyprus.