Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 249: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding trade links with Cuba; and if these links will be developed in 2006. [13923/06]

Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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Irish trade with Cuba is marginal and tends to fluctuate considerably. Exports to Cuba in 2005 amounted to €678,000. The principal exports were cork and wood products, and beverages. Imports from Cuba in 2004 amounted to €308,000. The principal imports were fruit and vegetables, tobacco, coffee, tea and cocoa. The table below shows the value of exports and imports between Ireland and Cuba in respect of the years 2001 to 2005.

There does not appear to be any significant Irish investment in Cuba and there is no Cuban investment in Ireland. Enterprise Ireland is the agency of my Department with responsibility for the development of indigenous industry in Ireland, including trade promotion abroad. Enterprise Ireland's client companies do not regard Cuba as a priority market. Resources are concentrated on markets that show better prospects of development at this stage. Ireland does have an air transport agreement with Cuba.