asked the Taoiseach what consultations the Government have had with the Irish Congress of Trades Unions with regard to the likely effects on employment in Ireland upon Ireland's entry to the EEC.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Membership of EEC.
2.
There have been no recent consultations with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions specifically on the question of the likely effects on employment of Ireland's entry to the European Economic Community. The congress is, of course, involved in the examination of industries which is being carried out by the Committee on Industrial Progress and they also participate in the annual industrial reviews. Employment is necessarily a factor in the issues arising in the course of these discussions.
I would draw the Deputy's attention also to my statement in this House on the 23rd June last in which I said that it is the Government's intention to maintain consultation with various bodies, including the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, during the period of negotiations on our application for membership of the EEC.
Would the Taoiseach be prepared to consider the appointment of observers representative of trade unions, employers and farming organisations to accompany the Irish negotiating team to Brussels in negotiations on a vocational basis in the event of negotiations continuing in the autumn?
I do not think that would be necessary. The system we propose to establish would ensure that these various groups would be kept fully informed on matters that affect their interests.