Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am pleased that the Deputy acknowledges the statement in our One World, One Future document. I agree with Deputy O'Sullivan that during the consultation period we should ensure we avail of the opportunity that will ultimately result in a robust regime. We are in the process of consulting with other Departments on the outline and content of our plan. An interdepartmental working group has been formed consisting of focal points from each Department.

I take the point Deputy O'Sullivan has made about the trade mandate of my Department. It is important that we have the opportunity to consult widely and that this consultation be real and meaningful. I am unsure whether Deputy O'Sullivan was present at the open forum on 7 November in Dublin Castle. That provided an opportunity for non-governmental organisations, academics, businesses and public representatives to exchange views on the plan. It is important now, in the context of the fact that we have received more than 30 submissions, that we allow an opportunity for those submissions to be taken on board - certainly, it is open to Deputy O'Sullivan to make a submission - to ensure that all possible elements are taken into consideration in the context of the relationship between Irish companies and Africa.

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