asked the Taoiseach whether in the forthcoming review of the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Agreement the Government propose to seek concessions for industries which have been adversely affected.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Review of Trade Agreement.
1.
It is presumed that the Deputy refers to the provisions in the Agreement for meetings between representatives of the two countries at least once a year to supervise the application of the Agreement, to keep its operation under review and to consider whether further action should be taken in order to promote its objectives. The next such meeting would fall due to be held towards the end of the year. At this stage it is not possible to say what matters would come up for discussion at this meeting.
In any event there is provision in the Agreement for dealing with difficulties of the type which the Deputy has in mind and I would refer him particularly to Article XIX of the Agreement.
Would the Taoiseach bear in mind the widespread fear amongst many operatives in Irish industry that, as this Agreement comes into effect and tariffs come down, competition will be more severe and that managements do not appear to be taking proper precautions to ensure that their work forces will be retained? This has happened in many cases.
The Deputy may not make a speech.
Has the Minister anything to say in regard to that?
I shall bring the Deputy's remarks to the notice of the Taoiseach.