Vol. 434 No. 2
117 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the process of European integration could be seriously retarded if the problems of German reunification persist; his views on whether the European Community should indicate its willingness to assist the reunification process; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The unification of Germany has been welcomed from the beginning by Ireland and by the Community. I do not believe that it should be a reason for a slow-down or a halt to European integration.
The successful incorporation into a new all-German economy of the damaged centralised economy of the former GDR is, of course, a major challenge. The task is all the more complicated because of the international recession and because of the major changes to the economies of many countries in Central and Eastern Europe which in the past provided a ready market for East German goods. I believe, nevertheless, that the economy of the former Federal Republic which, for more than a generation has been the strongest in Europe, will be able to handle successfully the radical restructuring which is necessary within the territory of the former GDR, which, together with it, now forms part of a single German economy.
The European Community has already indicated its willingness to help in the process of integrating the eastern parts of Germany. Under the Structural Fund package agreed in July these areas have been classified as Objective 1 Regions. Other policies, such as those related to the construction of Trans-European Networks, will also contribute to the integration and development of these areas.
