Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I very much welcome this review, which as Deputy Durkan said is timely. To the best of my recollection the previous review took place some time ago during the 1990s. Much has changed since then, in particular our circumstances. It is important to reflect on the fact that this review takes place against a backdrop of this country regaining its economic sovereignty. It is a timely opportunity to restate, renew and review our values on how we relate to the outside world and our global partners.

As Deputy Durkan said, the impact of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has been extremely significant in terms of restoring this country’s reputation. The Tánaiste and staff with whom we have developed relationships right across the globe must take significant credit for that. One could not but be impressed by the dedication and commitment of those who represent us abroad at all levels. It is extremely impressive. Such work, by its nature is slow. It is not immediately evident but it is extremely significant and has a cumulative impact over a period. We have all witnessed that when we have gone abroad to represent the committee.

The inclusion of trade has been a significant development in terms of the operational organisation of the Department. I have taken the view in the past two and a half years that the inclusion of trade in the remit has not just complemented the work of the IDA and Enterprise Ireland but has allowed the Department to do different things and has allowed the State to expand on its trade policy in a different way, in ways that the IDA and Enterprise Ireland cannot do. The Department engages in longer term diplomatic work which is most effective. I accept that the Tánaiste will not go into policy detail at the meeting as it would not be appropriate.

However, there is huge potential for the Department to extend its remit in terms of promoting and advancing Irish cultural interests abroad. The Department does that quite effectively, as does Culture Ireland, but there is a range of opportunities in that area we can exploit. Personally and as a member of this committee I look forward to being involved in a review to which I will contribute.