asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will state the Government's attitude to the EUREKA proposals for a major programme of scientific research into new technologies under the auspices of the EC.
Written Answers. - Scientific Research Programme.
18.
The Government are at present formulating their attitude to the French proposals for European collaboration in the field of advanced technologies, the so called EUREKA proposal. Our initial response has been that we regard the proposals as interesting and significant and as one which seeks to address the challenges presented by the present state of European co-operation and the place of Europe in the world. We intend to participate in further discussion of it, both bilaterally with France and in the European Community context.
The French proposals are as yet in general terms only and our assessment of EUREKA as a research co-operation project capable of solving Europe's high technology problems and Ireland's potential role therein is therefore at a preliminary stage. Many aspects of the proposals need to be clarified and at present the other member states are likewise engaged in similar exercises of analysis and consultation.
Question No. 19 postponed.