Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 November 2013
40. Deputy John Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding trade agreements and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49733/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis question relates to a query by a student enrolled to study for a Ph.D. who wishes to have details of international agreements which the State has not signed. As the Deputy will be aware, there is a large number of international agreements, covering a very wide range of subjects and falling within the functional responsibility of a number of Departments. Consideration is given, on an ongoing basis, to the desirability of Ireland signing, or becoming a party to, agreements which it has not already signed. The status of such agreements is kept under review in the context of the ongoing assessment and prioritisation of Ireland’s international and domestic commitments.
Given the large number of international agreements to which this question relates, the Deputy will understand that it would not be practical to furnish a full list of the details sought. However, if the individual concerned has questions in relation to a particular agreement (or agreements) my officials would be happy to provide him with more detailed information themselves and/or to direct him to the appropriate line Department. I would invite the individual to address any further queries to my Department directly, at http://www.dfa.ie/home/index.aspx?id=78746.
Details of the international agreements to which the State is already party are available on the electronic Irish Treaty Series, at http://www.dfa.ie/home/index.aspx?id=42915. The individual concerned has specific queries on international agreements relating to the World Trade Organisation which he may wish to address to the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.
