asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he proposes to return to the US to complete the urgent business which was in progress at the time of his return home prior to the election of the Taoiseach; and if any steps have been taken to complete this business.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Minister's US Visit.
164.
As I stated in reply to a question on 8th November, 1966, none of the functions, with the exception of a television interview in which I was to have participated in the United States, was cancelled as a result of my return home. Our Ambassador to the United States and one of the members of the Industrial Development Authority fulfilled all other engagements on my behalf.
The question of the completion of business or of my return to the US for that purpose does not, therefore, arise.
Without any desire to cause any personal embarrassment, may I ask the Minister if he considers that the trip was really necessary in the first instance when it had to be completed by the Ambassador?
I consider that the trip was necessary, that it was worthwhile and that the Deputy will in due course see the results of it. I also think that the circumstances in which I was obliged to return home were such that it should be clear to the Deputy that I was obliged to return home.
I accept that. When the Minister says that the Deputy will see the results of his visit, does he mean there will be any benefits to my constituents as a result? If he does, I should be very pleased if he would make another trip.
That thought occurred to me when I was giving the answer.
I nearly know what the Minister means.
Will the Minister go when it is safe to go again?
That is a separate question.
It is very much on the Minister's mind.