asked the Minister for Agriculture the present position in the multilateral trade negotiations in Geneva in regard to agricultural products; the means whereby Ireland is being represented at the talks; and, in particular, if he will make a statement on the prospect that the renewed import of New Zealand cheddar cheese to the European Community may be an outcome of the talks.
Written Answers. - Multilateral Trade Negotiations.
142.
The multilateral trade negotiations are now approaching the final phase. While some understandings have been reached on the major elements to be included in a comprehensive package, including agriculture, detailed arrangements have still to be worked out.
Ireland and the other member states of the EEC are represented in the negotiations by the European Commission which negotiates on behalf of the Community in accordance with directives issued by the Council of Ministers. In negotiations in the agricultural sector officials from my Department attend with the Commission.
As regards cheese and other dairy products requests for concessions have been made to the Community by New Zealand and some other third countries, while for its part the Community itself has made requests for some concessions in third country markets. These requests are still being processed and it would be imprudent for me to speculate on the outcome. Ireland is opposed to any concessions by the Community on cheddar cheese and this has been made clear to the Commission and the Council. I can assure the Deputy that the interests of the Irish dairy industry will be kept very much in mind when the matter comes up for decision.