Vol. 455 No. 1
9 Miss Harney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs whether he will nominate a representative of the Consumer's Association of Ireland as one of Ireland's nine nominees to the Economic and Social Council of the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10984/95]
The Members of the Economic and Social Committee were appointed by Council Decision 94/660 of 26 September 1994 for the period from 21 September 1994 to 20 September 1998. Thus the nomination of a new Irish member of the committee does not arise at this time. However, when the time comes for nominating members to the committee in 1998, I am sure that the Government will include in its consideration any nomination by the Consumers' Association of Ireland or indeed by any other similar organisations. It should be recalled that the Government's approach to nominations to the committee necessarily reflects the relevant EC Treaty provision that the committee shall consist of representatives of the various categories of economic and social activity. Ireland's membership at the committee is made up of representatives from the business community, the farming community, trade unions and the Irish Countrywomen's Association.
Will the Minister agree the consumer interest, which unfortunately is not traditionally regarded as of much importance in Ireland, is regarded as of considerable importance in most member states who have consumer representatives on the Economic and Social Council? Will she agree it would be a very good idea for Ireland to have such a representative to reflect the importance of the rights of the consumer in this economy and throughout the European Union generally?
In the event of a vacancy arising the matter will be considered on its merits by the Government of the day and nominations by the Consumers' Association of Ireland or any other similar organisation will be considered. The Council decision directs that the composition of the various categories represented should include producers, farmers, carriers, workers, dealers, craftsmen, professional occupations and the general public. In considering the composition of the current Irish membership the Government has endeavoured to meet that requirement.
