asked the Minister for Transport and Power what steps he proposes to take to ensure that Irish exports to the West Indies are not subject to the demands of the Association controlling the West India Steamship Lines.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin-West Indies Shipping Service.
31.
A Dutch shipping line, which is not a member of the West Indies Shipping Conference, recently inaugurated, with the encouragement of Córas Tráchtála, a service from Dublin via Liverpool to the West Indies. Another Dutch shipping company, a member of the West Indies Shipping Conference, has announced its intention of providing a similar service from Dublin. Irish exporters are free to use the independent service in preference to any service provided by a member of the Conference. No intervention on my part is necessary, nor, indeed, have I any power to intervene.
As a member of the inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organisation, this country is committed to supporting the freedom of shipping of all flags to take part in international trade without Government restriction or discrimination. Full commercial freedom for international shipping is in the best overall interests of this country and no ateration or modification of Government policy in that regard would be in our interest.
Is the Minister aware that his reference to this matter on the Vote on Account lately did not fairly represent the situation that exists? He tried to convey that there were two equally advantageous courses before us and that was a grossly misleading account to give us. He should contact the Chairman of Córas Tráchtála for the truth in this matter.
I am sorry if I gave the impression of equally advantageous services. I was just showing that the trade to the West Indies was such that rival shipping companies were offering their services. I did not wish to imply that one was better than another. The matter ultimately is one for the exporters. If they want to maintain cargoes with independent shipping companies, no doubt they will do so.
The Minister should reread his speech.