asked the Taoiseach if he is aware that the E.F.T.A. countries have set up a secretariat at Geneva through which they are carrying on discussions relative to trade and customs within the area and with other nations, including the representatives of the Economic Community; and if he considers it advisable for this country to be represented by an observer at such discussions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - E.F.T.A. Talks.
2.
I am aware that, in accordance with the normal practice of international organisations, the European Free Trade Association has established a Secretariat. It would not be practicable for a country not a member of the Organisation concerned to be directly associated with the work of its Secretariat.
It is possible that the question may later arise of countries having representatives accredited to the European Free Trade Association, just as many countries, including Ireland, have representatives accredited to the Commission of the European Community.
Should such a development take place, the Government will consider accrediting a representative to the E.F.T.A.
As I mentioned in reply to a question by the Deputy on 10th November, Ireland is a member of the Committee on Trade Problems, established last January, which has set up a Study Group to examine among other questions, the ways in which reciprocal tariff concessions between the E.F.T.A., the E.E.C. and other members of the Committee could be achieved.
Could the Taoiseach indicate if an application has been made for observer representation and, if so, if that application has been refused?
I think the Deputy misunderstands the situation. There is no central organisation to which we could send an accredited representative and no conference proceeding regularly at which we would seek to have observers present. The only thing E.F.T.A. has established so far is a secretariat.