H.E. Mr. Dan Mulhall:

I thank Deputy Durkan for acknowledging the role of spouses of officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. My wife and the wives of many colleagues have made a huge contribution in this area in the public interest. I am glad Deputy Durkan has recognised that contribution. It is something of which I have been aware for many years, including from my time as a young diplomat in terms of the work undertaken at that time by the spouses of then ambassadors. All of the moving around affects families. My daughter attended eight different schools during her school years. Happily, she has turned out to be a fine and pleasant young woman.