Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 163: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason for the significant decrease in the number of import licences applied for in 2006 to date, when compared to 2005; if there is any underlying change in Department policy that means that fewer products now require import licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37718/06]

Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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The decision to impose a licensing requirement for imports is taken under the European Union Common Commercial Policy. EU Council Regulation (EC) No. 2200/2004 introduced a system of prior surveillance import licensing on imports of certain textiles and clothing originating in the Peoples Republic of China. This Regulation took effect on 1 January 2005 and ran until 31 December 2005. On 1 February 2005, in accordance with EU Commission Regulation (EC) No. 117/2005, a system of prior surveillance import licensing was introduced on imports of certain footwear originating in the Peoples Republic of China. This system was applicable until 31 January 2006.

Both of these Regulations were in force throughout 2005. Their expiry in December 2005 and January 2006 accounts for the decrease in the number of import licences issued in the current year.