Bernard J. Durkan
Question:52 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the number of new trade agreements entered into in the current year and with whom; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Trade Agreements.
In accordance with Article 113 of the Treaty of Rome, the European Union operates a common commercial policy. Under that policy, Ireland is precluded from concluding bilateral trade agreements with third countries. Therefore, Ireland has not entered into any such trade agreements this year, or since we joined the European Economic Community in 1973.