Question:
72 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Communicating Europe Task Force has addressed the need for more public awareness of the issues surrounding EMU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27751/98]
Written Answers. - Economic and Monetary Union.
The Communicating Europe Task Force was established with a view to the stimulation of an inclusive debate about Ireland's role in the European Union, the benefits of membership and the future challenges. With regard to the question of Ireland's imminent participation in EMU, the Deputy will also be aware that the Minister for Finance established the Euro Changeover Board of Ireland on 5 May 1998. The board has two basic tasks: to oversee the detailed implementation of the changeover to the euro and to provide public and consumer information.
The Communicating Europe Task Force, will always be prepared to consider, in the pursuance of its more general mandate, any appropriate way in which it can contribute to public awareness of economic and monetary union.