David Andrews
Ceist:68 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the proposals, if any, he has to re-establish trade links with Libya. [4166/95]
Written Answers. - Trade Links with Libya.
Ireland's trade with Libya is on-going, if erratic. Over the last five years for which statistics are available, our exports ranged from a high of £37 million in 1989 to £11 million in 1992. Exports in 1993 were worth £21 million and consisted mainly of live cattle and miscellaneous food preparations. Our imports in the same period were minimal, totalling £5,000 over the five years 1989 to 1993.
Current restrictions on trade with Libya are based on UN and EU action in introducing sanctions. The main target of these sanctions are the Libyan civilian and military airlines and the oil export and refining industries and thus, it is only the supply of related goods and services which come under the scope of the restrictions. Any relaxation of these restrictions would be a matter for the UN who review the situation on an ongoing basis.