Vol. 498 No. 4
66 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has endeavoured to negotiate e-commerce agreements with other countries following the Ireland-United States of America Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27744/98]
The Government has identified the development of Ireland as a centre for electronic commerce as a top priority. A number of major initiatives have been taken in recent months to build a strong momentum in this regard including the signing of a communiqué between Ireland and the United States during President Clinton's recent visit. So far, no similar bilateral understandings have been arranged. While the development of e-commerce is primarily the responsibility of other Ministers, in my discussions with my counterparts in other countries I use any appropriate opportunity to promote Ireland's economic interests including the possibilities offered by electronic commerce.
