Vol. 525 No. 5
161 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the revision in the EU treaties envisage giving the Commission further competency in relation to World Trade Organisation issues, and particularly in relation to the issues of TRIPS, services and investment; and if he will make a statement on the merits of such a treaty change. [25520/00]
There are proposals under consideration in the context of the Intergovernmental Conference, Intergovernmental Conference, for the amendment of Article 133 of the Treaty establishing the European Community. Article 133 governs the operation of the European Union Common Commercial Policy. The aim of these proposals is to enhance the EU's ability to participate effectively in bilateral and multilateral discussions and negotiations on international trade issues, particularly in the context of future enlargement of the EU.
Ireland supports this aim. However, the nature of any amendment or whether amendment is necessary or appropriate has not yet been decided. The question of altering existing internal community competences in these areas is not under consideration in the Intergovernmental Conference.
