asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if discussions have taken place with officials from Northern Ireland regarding proposals from the Economic and Social Committee of the European Community for (i) pilot farms; and (ii) the creation of industrial zones.
Written Answers. - Cross-Border Discussions.
18.
With regard to the creation of industrial zones, discussions have been held with officials from Northern Ireland, as well as representatives of the communities concerned, on the initiation of a cross-Border study of the Derry-Donegal-Strabane area with the help of the European Community. Among the terms of reference of the study agreed by the Irish and British Governments is the feasibility of a cross-Border industrial zone. I hope that agreement will shortly be reached on the terms of reference so that this important study can begin.
Up to the present no discussions have been held with the Northern Ireland authorities on the issue of pilot farms.
The Deputy will be aware that the Economic and Social Committee is an advisory body and its report on the Border Areas, which was welcome by the Government when it was published in February 1984, is to be seen in this light.