Maynooth University’s Department of Law is to host an online seminar later this month on the legal and policy issues raised by the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

An Oireachtas vote on ratifying the deal, scheduled for late last year, was postponed amid opposition from some Green Party TDs.

Challenge

One of the party’s TDs, Patrick Costello, has challenged the constitutionality of the ratification process, asking the High Court to decide whether a referendum is needed.

Two separate Oireachtas Committees, on European Union Affairs and Budgetary Oversight, are also due to examine the substance of the agreement and its potential financial implications.

A panel of experts will discuss the issues with academics from Maynooth University on Monday, 22 March, from 12.30pm to 2pm. The panel includes:

• Professor Elaine Fahey (City, University of London),
• Dr Mona Pinchis-Paulsen (London School of Economics),
• Dr Conor Casey (European University Institute/Maynooth University).

Investment protection

They will discuss how the Irish courts review the constitutionality of international treaties, and what specific questions are being raised by CETA.

They will also examine the role of investment protection, particularly the controversial investment court system, in trade agreements, as well as the powers of EU members and institutions over trade deals.

Those interested in taking part can now register.