Mr. Philip Kelly:

When it follows through on that commitment, we will get the answer to that issue of compatibility. However, I am not aware of any other member state asking to re-open the ICS text pending such a reference by the Belgian Government or the final determination in the case of the Singapore agreement coming from the court.

I am not privy to discussion domestically in government as to our position in regard to ICS and the ECJ. As is standard, if the Belgian Government is taking a case, EU member state governments may choose to join that action or oppose it. I have not had consultation with anybody as to what Ireland's position might be. Our current position is that we do not see that the ICS is in contravention of the European treaties.