asked the Minister for Communications if he is aware that citizens of this country cannot use their own transport within parts of the EEC to transport their own goods from one town or city to another; if he regards this as discrimination towards Irish citizens; the action he proposes to take to remove these obstacles; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Transport of Goods.
443.
Ireland has concluded bilateral road transport agreements with each of the member states of the European Communities. These agreements include provision for own account transport of goods between Ireland and the country in question and/or in transit through that country.
Such provision however does not cover cabotage i.e. the picking up of goods at any point in a country for delivery at any other point in that country. If the question relates to this type of traffic the position is as provided for in all the agreements and thus cannot be seen as discriminatory or calling for action.
If the Deputy has particulars of any specific case in which he considers that operations permitted under bilateral agreements were not allowed, or where some other problem has arisen, I will have the matter looked into if he provides me with the relevant information.