asked the Taoiseach if he will give details of each visit to a foreign country undertaken since 31st March, 1974, including the overall cost of such visit and the advantage for this country arising therefrom.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Visits Abroad.
2.
The particulars requested are contained in a statement which I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to circulate with the Official Report.
Two of the three visits were for the purpose of discussing Northern Ireland and certain EEC and other matters with the British Prime Minister. The visit to Paris was for a meeting of EEC Heads of State or of Government.
Following is the statement:
Official visits abroad by Taoiseach since 31st March, 1974.
|
Destination and Date |
Cost |
Purpose of journey |
|
London 4/5th April, 1974 |
£83.76 |
Discussion on Northern Ireland situation with British Prime Minister. |
|
London 11/12th September, 1974 |
£183.20* |
(i) Discussion with British Prime Minister on developments affecting Northern Ireland, the European Economic Community and other matters; |
|
(ii) Discussion with Opposition Leader, Mr. Health, on Northern Ireland situation. |
||
|
*Paris, 14th September, 1974. |
Meeting of EEC Heads of State or of Government. |
*The Taoiseach travelled from London to Paris for this meeting and for cost purposes both meetings were combined.
Will the Taoiseach state if the matters discussed with the British Government under the heading of EEC matters included the question of seeking their co-operation in making a joint application to the EEC for the carrying out of surveys prior to drawing up jointly a development plan for the area concerned? Will the inform the House if he was turned down in this request or if any progress has been made in the matter?
The Deputy is referring to specific matters.
That does not arise on this question.