International Agreements.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2004

Wednesday, 18 February 2004

Ceisteanna (126)

Eamon Ryan

Ceist:

195 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government supports the call from the European Parliament for the inclusion of a national veto on the liberalisation of trade in services in the areas of culture, health and education in the proposed new European constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3816/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

As a participant in the IGC, the Government supported the retention of unanimity in decision making on international agreements under the common commercial policy in the areas of culture, health, education and social services. As Presidency, it is our task to seek to achieve an overall balanced outcome that is acceptable to all member states.