Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 1991

Vol. 407 No. 1

Written Answers. - Importation Ban on South African Produce.

Godfrey Timmins

Ceist:

57 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the political changes that have taken place in South Africa, he will outline his views on whether, the importation ban on South African produce should be lifted.

Austin Deasy

Ceist:

100 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether other members of the EC continue to ban the importation of South African fruit; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Collins)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 57 and 100 together.

A ban on the importation into Ireland of South African agricultural produce was introduced by Government Order in 1986 under powers conferred on the Government by section 2 of the Restrictions of Imports Act, 1962.

Within the Community, Denmark also bans imports of agricultural produce as part of their overall ban on trade with South Africa.

Government policy towards South Africa, including the issue of sanctions, is being kept under regular review in the light of the major political developments now taking place in that country. This includes the ban on imports of fruit and vegetables from South Africa.