Dick Spring
Question:3 Mr. Spring asked the Taoiseach if he will make a statement regarding his visit to Rome last weekend.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Rome Visit.
I considered it my duty as head of Government to attend in Rome last weekend to demonstrate the total support of the Irish people for our team and our appreciation of their superb achievements in the World Cup. I was invited to dinner before the match by Prime Minister Andreotti who, as Deputies will be aware, is the incoming President of the European Council. The occasion provided me with an opportunity to discuss with him matters with particular reference to the hand-over of the Presidency to Italy.
A nice pass, and well caught. Well done, Sir.
Perhaps the question would have had more teeth in it if I had attended myself, but I would take the opportunity of joining with the Taoiseach in congratulating the Irish team, and indeed the Irish supporters, and the gardaí who attended the Irish supporters in Italy for the five weeks, and all associated with it. It was worthwhile to be associated with the team on this great occasion for Irish sport.
In view of the racketeering that went on in Italy, would the Taoiseach now think it appropriate that we should consider introducing legislation here forbidding the sale of tickets for more than face value, and would he also consider suggesting to the European Parliament that they should do likewise?
The Deputy is expanding on the subject of this question. The Deputy should put down pertinent questions.
Would the Taoiseach consider it?
I cannot visualise any legislation we could introduce here that would prevent abuses abroad.
Would the Taoiseach consider doing so to combat abuses here in view of the experience of Irish fans in Europe?
There may be some legal inhibitions against ticket touting. I am not sure.
There is not.
I would like to join with the previous contributors in congratulating all concerned. Would the Taoiseach indicate in general terms the cost to the taxpayer of the trip to Rome?
I have no idea.
As I understood the craft involved was to be available for the duration and purpose of the EC summit, may I ask the Taoiseach when it is intended to return it?
That is a separate matter concerning the craft, Deputy.