asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he intends to hold public functions in connection with the accession of the State to the EEC on 1st January next.

Local authorities will organise symbolic tree-planting ceremonies throughout the country to mark the accession of Ireland to the European Communities. The Minister for Lands will provide the plants and the Minister for Local Government will also extend every possible facility.

A special stamp commemorating Ireland's accession will be issued in January.

RTE are arranging to transmit a special music programme on television and another on radio on the night of 31st December, 1972, to mark the occasion.

Has the Minister any idea of the selection of trees that will be provided by the Department of Lands?

I have not got these details to hand.