asked the Minister for External Affairs if he will state fully the reasons for Ireland's non-participation in the Canadian Universal and International Exhibition at Montreal.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Canadian International Exhibition.
2.
At the invitation of the Government of Canada, the Government decided, on 19th January, 1965, to participate in the Canadian Universal and International Exhibition to be held in Montreal from April to October, 1967. On the basis of estimates then submitted, the Government decided to limit expenditure on the participation to £175,000.
Towards the end of 1965, it became clear that costs in Montreal were rising rapidly and that the original budget would have to be revised upwards to £200,000. At the same time, the Government were compelled to take action to reduce the deficit in our balance of payments, and they decided they must withdraw from participation in the Exhibition. A press announcement to that effect was issued on 4th January this year and our sincere regret was conveyed to the Government of Canada.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the Montreal Exhibition is not a trade fair. It is being promoted in 1967 to celebrate the centenary of Canadian Confederation. The Canadian Government has been informed that a special effort will be made to mark the centenary in an appropriate manner in Ireland.
The Minister says it is not a trade fair. Could trade accrue from participation in this exhibition?
It is not a trade fair but there might be some effect on trade.
Did the Minister consult any of his colleagues such as the Minister for Finance or the Minister for Industry and Commerce, with a view to seeing whether or not an investment of £200,000 would be of value to this country in a return of trade from Canada?
I am sure the Deputy is aware that the economic departments do not regard even trade fairs as the best way to promote trade. They always say that if they had the money to expand otherwise in promotional activity, they would get a better result.
The Minister considers that the expenditure of £200,000 would not be a good investment in our present circumstances?
No.