Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

The Tánaiste explained the position in this House. The Government's position and decision to nominate the Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr. Cooney, as Ireland's non-resident ambassador means he is ideally placed to inform the Government of any potential issues with the Vatican, thereby helping to head off any difficulties in the future. Moreover, the Holy See has agreed to Mr. Cooney's nomination and it is expected that he will present his credentials to Pope Benedict next May. As Senator Paul Coghlan also noted, the question of the possibility of two ambassadors in one building is also being considered. As the Tánaiste mentioned in this House, this matter is under constant review.