Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2004
185 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Taoiseach the details of the programme for marking the accession of new EU member states in Dublin on 1 May 2004; the time, nature and location of events; the projected cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5612/04]
View answerIn so far as my Department is involved, the main official events being arranged to mark enlargement on 1 May 2004, comprise a formal ceremony at Áras an Uachtaráin on the evening of 1 May at which the Heads of State or Government of the EU and accession countries will participate; and immediately after the ceremony at Áras an Uachtaráin, an official dinner at Farmleigh for the European Council Members, being Heads of State or Government.
Earlier in the day, the Presidents of the European Commission and European Parliament will join me in meeting the press for statements and comments about the significance of this enlargement.
Timings are not yet firmed but the formal ceremony at Áras an Uachtaráin and the dinner at Farmleigh are intended to take place between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Consideration is also being given to the possibility of a further reception linked to the meeting with the media.
Costs arising to my Department identified at this stage of planning are provisionally estimated to be in the order of €300,000.
The Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism is also co-ordinating an extensive programme of public events in Dublin and throughout the country to mark the historic occasion.
