There are two aspects to this question, the first of which is, what can we do ourselves. I will be introducing a National Monuments (Amendment) Bill, I hope this year, which will broaden the definition of archaeological objects to include treasure trove. At the same time, under Article 36 of the Treaty of Rome, work will continue on this area at European Community level. Two points should be made. On 29 January 1992 in Brussels the Commission presented two proposals for Community instruments relating to cultural property for consideration by member states, the first of which is a directive on the return of cultural objects unlawfully removed from the territory of a member state and, second, a regulation on the export of cultural goods.
Ireland is not the only country concerned about this matter; obviously Italy, Spain, Greece and other member states are equally concerned about it. Therefore, it will be my role to monitor the position and to maintain contact with my counterparts in the Community throughout this period. I suggest to Deputy Nealon that we should not look on this issue in the context of our national territory. I see my role in relation to arts and culture complementing my role as Minister of State with special responsibility for European affairs in that this is a European Community matter. It is important that collectively we work together in the European Community to ensure control. I appreciate the Deputy's concern and the efforts he made when Minister of State but I am satisfied our cultural interests will be adequately served by the legislation I intend to introduce and my links with other Ministers for culture and art within the European Community.