asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the part the Government or any other Irish agency plays in the preparation and implementation of a European space programme; whether the Government approves the proposals regarding European space policy adopted by the Council of Europe in Recommendation 677 (1972); and whether the Government supports the continued development for peaceful purposes of the Europa series of launchers and European participation with the USA in the post-Apollo programme.

The National Science Council has observers in specific applications programmes of the European Space Research Organisation which are of direct interest to us.

The Committee of Ministers' Deputies of the Council of Europe has not discussed the substance of Recommendation 677 (1972) but has agreed to transmit the recommendation to the Committee of Alternates of the European Space Conference for information.

Since Ireland does not participate in the Europa launcher programme the third part of the question does not arise.

Would the Minister say whether we have any particular policy on space?

Beyond kite-flying?

The present position of the European programme is uncertain and does not yet warrant the taking of a special position.

We have not taken any particular decision on space?

The taking of a special position is not warranted at this time.