Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Members will appreciate that there are obviously great opportunities, but we must work within our resources. We have a mere three embassies covering all of South America and Central America. That presents difficulties and means that we cannot engage in the manner members would like. I certainly take on board the recommendation of the committee that we engage actively with Cuba and other countries. We will do so.

Members will be aware that my officials have raised the Cuban banking issue. We continue to pursue the matter actively and we will keep Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan and others informed in so far as we can.