asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism whether the Government have given consideration to participating in the international exhibition EXPO 1986 in Canada; and, if not, whether he is aware that, with the exception of Portugal, it is understood that Ireland will be the only other non-participating country.
Written Answers. - Participation in EXPO 86.
25.
The question of participating in EXPO 86 has been considered on a number of occasions. The exposition is basically of a non-commercial nature dealing with transport and communications and estimated to be of very little trade benefit to Ireland. Because of the theme of the exposition, the Minister for Communications took the lead role in deciding on attendance. On being consulted and having discussed the matter with the promotion agencies under my control, Córas Tráchtála, Bórd Fáilte and the IDA, I advised the Minister for Communications that because of the specialist nature of the exposition it was felt that any benefit to be gained from participating would not justify the expenditure necessary to mount a national stand.
I understand that the Minister for Communications consulted the relevant semi-State bodies under his aegis which are involved in the area of transport and communications and was satisfied that because of financial and other constraints none of the bodies would be in a position to take part in the exposition. On the basis of the various views expressed, the Minister for Communications decided that Ireland would not participate in EXPO 86. This decision was conveyed to the Canadian authorities through the Department of Foreign Affairs in May 1984.
Following further representations from the Canadian authorities the matter was reconsidered but again it was decided not to participate.
Of the EC member states, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France and Belgium will all amount national exhibits. In common with the remaining member states Ireland will not be mounting a national stand but will be represented on the Community exhibit.