asked the Minister for External Affairs if the Government has as yet studied The Hague decision with regard to its application to this country for the extension of our territorial waters; and, if so, if he will state what decision has been arrived at.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Extension of Territorial Waters.
The answer to the Deputy's question is in the negative. An interdepartmental committee, on which my Department is represented, has been studying the matter in all its implications for some months past. It is expected that the committee's report will be available to the Government relatively soon.
Will the Minister publish the report the minute the Government receives it?
That is a matter for consideration.
Does the Minister not agree that it seems a fairly considerable time to consider a net issue?
It is a fairly important matter.
Does the Minister not consider there is some urgency in having the matter examined?
It is being examined as quickly as possible.
It is very important to expedite the issue of the report.