International Agreements

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2013

Tuesday, 14 May 2013

Questions (402)

Michael Colreavy

Question:

402. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the proposed comprehensive economic and trade agreement between the EU and Canada that would grant energy companies far reaching powers to challenge regulations governing shale gas exploration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22494/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Fergus O'Dowd)

I understand that under the EU's Common Commercial Policy, the EU Commission is responsible for negotiations on the EU - Canada Free Trade Agreement, commonly referred to as the CETA. I am advised that negotiations are still underway on this agreement and that the EU and its Member States will continue to be free to legislate for legitimate public policy reasons in a non-discriminatory way.