Ruairí Quinn
Question:36 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his meeting with the Danish Prime Minister, Mr. Rasmussen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2765/99]
Written Answers. - Official Engagements.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:37 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach the issues he will raise with Prime Minister Jospin and President Chirac when he meets them in February 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2766/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 37 together.
I will meet the Danish Prime Minister on 4 February in Copenhagen and with President Chirac and Prime Minister Jospin on 15 February in Paris. I will also meet with the Dutch Prime Minister on 17 February in the Hague. I view these meetings as extremely important opportunities to clarify Irish interests and concerns and ensure the best possible final outcome for Ireland in the Agenda 2000 negotiations.
As to the content of my discussions, I would envisage that the primary focus will be the key issues under Agenda 2000. It would be unwise of me to announce in the House the finer details of our negotiating strategy on these matters before the negotiations proper begin.
I intend to discuss in detail with Prime Minister Jospin and President Chirac, the current proposals on CAP reform. Our French counterparts like ourselves recognise the vital importance of the agriculture industry to our economies. As I have indicated to the House previously, while we accept the broad thrust of the Commission's proposals, the proposals as they stand would damage both our agriculture industry and the Irish economy as a whole.
I also intend discussing the retention of duty free sale facilities during the course of my visits. In this respect, both the French President and Prime Minister have been strong advocates for the retention of duty free sales beyond end of June.
Apart from Agenda 2000 related matters, I would also expect to discuss issues of a bilateral nature and take the opportunity to brief each of the Leaders on the Northern Ireland peace process. I will also raise external issues, such as the crisis in Kosovo, which are of concern to the Union.