Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 27 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 3

Written Answers. - EU Enlargement.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

93 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government has been of assistance to Hungary in its application to join the European Union; the assistance given; the cost thereof where relevant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8664/01]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

As the Deputy will be aware, the Government fully supports the enlargement process and participates positively and constructively in the accession negotiations, which are currently at a very advanced stage with Hungary and other candidate countries. At the same time, Ireland is willing to provide any assistance possible to the candidate countries in their preparations for EU membership. Ireland is perceived by these countries as having managed its membership of the EU very well.

In addition to the assistance provided under EU programmes like PHARE, Ireland has provided assistance to Hungary and other candidates on a bilateral basis in the form of advice and training for officials in preparation for accession. Hungarian public servants have participated in several training courses and seminars on EU issues, which have been funded and organised by my Department in conjunction with the Institute of Public Administration. This programme of courses is being developed further in the lead-up to accession, and, I fully expect that more officials from Hungary will participate.

Contacts at all levels, government, parliamentary, and official, can be very beneficial to both candidate and member states alike. In respect of Hungary, I can report that such contacts have increased considerably over recent years. I would draw attention particularly to the Taoiseach's visit to Hungary in November 1999 and the President's state visit in April 2000 as just two examples of the many recent high level exchanges. Further intensive contacts are planned at all levels in the period ahead. Indeed, I look forward to welcoming the Hungarian Foreign Minister when he pays an official visit to Ireland next week.