Vol. 465 No. 6
28 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade whether the signing of a liberal trade agreement with South Africa will be a priority during Ireland's Presidency of the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7492/96]
50 Mr. M. Smith asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the implications, if any, for Irish exporters of the possible free trade area between the EU and South Africa, as proposed by the EU General Affairs Council. [7442/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 50 together.
The General Affairs Council adopted directives for the negotiation of a comprehensive long-term agreement between the Union and South Africa in June 1995. The directives provided, inter alia, that South Africa should be asked to initiate a process leading to progressive and reciprocal liberalisation of trade with a view to establishing a free trade area. On 25 March this year, the General Affairs Council agreed the mandate for the Union's participation in negotiations on a free trade area.
Ireland has enjoyed a healthy trade surplus with South Africa for many years and there are few products imported into the Union from South Africa which could be regarded as competing with Irish products. As Ireland's exports to South Africa are generally subject to high access barriers, which restrict market opportunities, a free trade agreement would see a phased elimination of such barriers and would boost export opportunities for Irish companies. An Bord Tráchtála is very active in the South African market and well placed to develop any opportunities that may arise. A liberal free trade agreement with South Africa would be broadly supported by Ireland.
It is unlikely, I understand, that an agreement with South Africa can be concluded during the Irish Presidency of the European Union. I would, however, wish to see significant progress made on this issue during our Presidency.
With the Chair's permission and the general agreement of the House, may we have the reply to the next question?
The time for dealing with questions is all but exhausted; perhaps we can deal briefly with Question No. 29 in the name of Deputy Batt O'Keeffe.
Is that the one I was trying to avoid?
I understand it is an optimistic enough reply.
