Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 20 Jun 2002

Vol. 553 No. 4

Written Answers. - WTO Negotiations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

17 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which he intends to positively influence WTO talks to the advantage of Irish and European producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14067/02]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

71 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position he intends to adopt in the course of WTO negotiations; if he is satisfied that Irish producers will have equal and ready access to markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14192/02]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 71 together.

The EU operates as a single entity in the WTO, with the negotiations carried out by the EU Commission in accordance with a mandate decided by the Council of Ministers. The current mandate was approved by the Agriculture and General Affairs Councils in September and October 1999 and provides a satisfactory framework for protecting Irish interests.

The WTO Ministerial Declaration agreed at Doha in November 2001 which launched the new round of negotiations is in accordance with that mandate.

It is my intention to continue to ensure that the EU adheres to a common position in the WTO negotiations which protects the interests of Irish and European agriculture and agri-business.