asked the Minister for External Affairs whether it is intended to submit to the Dáil for ratification the Consular Treaty entered into between Ireland and the United States.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Consular Treaty with the United States.
As the Deputy is aware, the United States authorities found themselves unable to proceed to the ratification of the Consular Convention between Ireland and the United States signed on the 1st May, 1950, as objection was taken in the United States to Article 18, which defined the powers of consuls in regard to estates and property transfers.
On the 3rd March this year a Supplementary Protocol was signed on behalf of our two countries which deletes Article 18 and replaces it by provisions giving a treaty basis to the existing position of consuls in both countries who deal with estate and property matters.
As soon as we are notified that the United States is in a position to ratify the Convention as amended, the Dáil will be asked to approve legislation to enable effect to be given to certain of its provisions. On the enactment of the legislation, ratification will be effected by the President on the advice of the Government.