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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 May 1998

Vol. 491 No. 5

Written Answers. - EU Court of Justice Cases.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

57 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of cases which Ireland is defending before the European Court of Justice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9866/98]

Ireland is currently defending eight cases before the Court of Justice of the European Communities.

Five of these cases relate to non-implementation of directives within the time limits set out in those directives. In respect of three of these five cases, the relevant implementing measures have now been completed and it is expected that the proceedings against Ireland in those cases will be withdrawn shortly. In respect of the fourth case, implementing measures in the form of ministerial regulations have been drafted and it is expected that the relevant Minister will make the regulations in the near future. In respect of the fifth case, the relevant Minister sent instructions to the parliamentary draftsman's office on 18 May to draft the appropriate implementing measures and this will be done at the earliest opportunity.

The other three cases relate to differences of opinion between the State and the European Commission as to the correct interpretation to be given to the provisions of particular directives. The Chief State Solicitor and the Attorney General, with appropriate assistance from my Department and other relevant Government Departments, are working together to ensure that Ireland's interests are fully defended in these proceedings.

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