asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if membership of the EEC involves any change in the principle in Irish law that one is innocent until proved guilty; and, if so, the nature of the change.

There is absolutely no question of membership of the EEC involving a requirement or obligation on us to change the presumption in law that one is innocent until proved guilty.

What would be the effect of this in the context of the EEC harmonisation of laws?

It will certainly not affect criminal law. It would not involve any alteration in the principles enshrined in the criminal law and procedure of this country including the presumption of innocence until proved guilty. The treaties and laws of the Community, as the Deputy knows, extend only to economic, commercial and related social fields.