Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Tánaiste for his response. The two critical elements in the negotiations at present are that Iran would stop enriching Uranium to the 20% level and that the 1,200 kg already enriched would be exported out of the state and in return for that the world powers would make concessions to help Iran develop its civil nuclear programme, they would help bolster safety at the existing nuclear facilities and they would help Iran obtain spare parts for its civil aircraft. That appears to be the critical issue on offer. Is the Tánaiste of the view that progress in that regard would justify the removal of sanctions?

I am conscious that the Minister wearing his trade hat - or the Minister of State, Deputy Costello, seating beside him, wearing his - has responsibility in the area of the €80 million-plus value of trade relations we have with this country. Notwithstanding the valid points made by Deputy Mac Lochlainn, does the Minister see Ireland as being a trading partner of Iran? Having had some traditional relations with it, I am conscious of the diplomatic efforts in this country of Ambassador Panahiazar, who is constantly asserting the fact that his country is not, nor has any desire to be, involved in the creation of weapons of mass destruction. Does the Minister consider there is any potential for Ireland to play any significant additional role to what is currently happening within the EU?

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