asked the Minister for Social Welfare if any progress has been made since his previous reply on the matter in the negotiation of a reciprocal social welfare agreement with Australia and other British Commonwealth countries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reciprocal Social Welfare Agreements.
57.
As I indicated in my reply to the Deputy's previous question on this subject in December last, the possibility of making a reciprocal arrangement on social welfare with Australia is being examined in my Department. If it emerges that any reasonable basis for reciprocity between the two countries in the field of social welfare exists, the question of entering into negotiations in the matter will be taken up with the Australian authorities.
Reciprocal arrangements with other countries in the British Commonwealth are not at present contemplated.