Item 4 is a motion in the name of Deputy Quinn on the accession of Greece, Spain and Portugal to the European Communities. Before calling on Deputy Quinn to move the motion I should like to tell the Committee that I have considered whether it is within our terms of reference to consider the implications of the accession of Greece, Spain and Portugal. In the case of each applicant country the Commission has delivered opinions, as required under the Treaty, and the Council has taken decisions in favour of the applicants. These opinions and decisions constitute acts of the institutions of the Community and, as such, they can be considered by the Joint Committee. Therefore, Deputy Quinn's motion is in order.
Of course, it is a matter entirely for this Committee whether the Deputy's motion is accepted. If the motion is accepted I suggest we agree on how exactly the matter is to be handled. Offhand, I would be inclined to say it would not be appropriate to refer the question to one of our Sub-Committees. It should be dealt with in the full Joint Committee. Incidentally, I understand that the accession treaty with Greece is likely to be signed next June. I call on Deputy Quinn to move the motion.