asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will explain why the veto or the unanimity rule does not apply to decision-making on the prices of agricultural products in the EEC as these decisions affect vital national interests in this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agriculture Industry.
42.
It is in fact the case that in practice decisions relating to the prices of agriculture products are taken on the basis of unanimity.
The Agriculture Council fixes prices for the products covered by market organisation each year, normally in the first months of the year. This is invariably the outcome of prolonged discussions and negotiations following proposals submitted by the Commission. It is recognised that this matter is one of vital interest to each member State and, as I have said, the final decision is taken unanimously.