John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

It would be absolutely pointless and I do not intend to do so now. The incoming Minister might have a different view on the matter, which is fine with me. However, it is my opinion that it is not worthwhile joining the WTO. It would have been fine to join to see whether it would be possible to attract additional tourism business but the reality is that tourism is one of the most competitive businesses in the world. Far from helping one another, members of the WTO are in hard competition with one another. Unfortunately, whether we like it or not, it is a tough world and we are in competition with all WTO members.

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