I propose with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle to take Questions Nos. 121, 123 and 124 together. I assume that these are intended to relate to the Fifth European Development Fund, as the Fourth Fund was established in 1975.
In reply to a previous similar question from Deputy Quinn, I pointed out that the question of the 5th EDF arises in the context of negotiations with the ACP countries towards a successor agreement to the Lomé Convention. I said at the time that as the financial aspects of the negotiations were being left to a later stage, the Community had yet to formally consider the matter. This is still the position and it would be premature and inappropriate for the Government to make public at this stage any position which Ireland will take in the European Community consideration of the question. Ireland will, of course, contribute actively to determining the appropriate volume of funds which the Community could contribute to co-operation with the ACP States under the new convention. I do not consider it necessary that there should be consultation on this issue with voluntary and professional organisations involved in development co-operation such as those listed by the Deputies. I will of course be very pleased to receive submissions from these or any other interested parties on this question.