Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would like to pick up on Deputy Calleary's comments about IDA Ireland's locations. As a representative of Galway, I am aware of the importance of regional balance, which has been much commented on. Obviously, there is a critical mass in Dublin and Cork as the largest cities. Are there other issues that attract companies primarily to those locations? Can more be done to attract inward investment into Galway? While Galway has done quite well, in fairness, one would never refuse new business. I am always pushing these areas. The Minister might comment on that.

When I visited the consulate general in Boston during the summer, I noted that the Enterprise Ireland offices were located in the same complex and I was informed that efforts were being made to bring IDA Ireland in there as well. It seems like a good idea for consular diplomats to be accommodated alongside the staff of IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland. Is that being replicated in other parts of the world? Are there plans to do so? I am aware that the opening of new embassies and consulates has been announced today. Will the Minister consider this approach in that context? For example, would consideration be given to operating in this way in Austin, Texas, where a new consulate is to be opened? What kind of presence will this country have in those locations?