THE Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Spring, announced in February 1994 that work was to begin on the preparation of a White Paper on foreign policy. The Fine Gael/Labour/ Democratic Left Government committed itself to preparing and, publishing the White Paper in its policy agreement adopted in, December 1994.
It is the first White Paper covering all aspects of foreign policy. The Department of Foreign Affairs initiated a process of consultation in advance of publication, holding seven public seminars between November 1994 and March 1995. More than 70 non governmental organisations were invited to make written submissions.
The 348 page document is available from the Government Publications Office for £8. It is also available on the Internet.