asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the plans he has to achieve international industrial co-operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Co-operation.
19.
The heads of state or of government of the enlarged European Community agreed in October last to seek to establish a single industrial base for the Community as a whole and to adopt an overall policy of development co-operation on a world-wide scale. Ireland, being a member of the Community, intends to avail of the opportunities for co-operation provided by this policy.
I should like an assurance from the Minister that we can rely entirely on him in this regard in view of his attitude to the EEC before the Referendum?
The question does not arise and I am calling the next Question.
I would appreciate an opportunity to reply because the question has been asked.
The Chair deems the question to be out of order and irrelevant.
I accept the ruling of the Chair in this regard but I would be happy, if somebody wishes to put down a question, to deal with it. Certainly we will have the opportunity quite soon on my Estimate.
When?
I do not know exactly but it will be in the near future.
Does the Minister think November is soon enough?
It will be sooner than November, and maybe too soon for the Deputy.
20.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if the proposed bureau for encouraging co-operation between enterprises in the European Community has been established; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I understand that on the 16th April, 1973, the Council of the EEC agreed to set up a Community Business Co-operation Centre.
The Industrial Development Authority through its joint venture division is in close liaison with the centre with a view to availing of its services for concerns interested in a link up with firms in other member states.