Ms Sinead Lucey:

The Deputy quite rightly pointed out the strength of Ireland's brand in international markets. While it might be quite strong in places such as the US, it is certainly not as strong in Asia. That requires investment in our national brand by our embassies. I commend the embassies in terms of the really amazing work they do in respect of the national brand, particularly in the context of education in Ireland. The Deputy referred to New Zealand. The New Zealand Government's level of investment in the country's national brand is significantly higher than the corresponding level of investment here. I do not have the figures in that regard with me but I can certainly provide them. Without the type of investment to which I refer, it is difficult to raise our profile in those markets.

We were asked about what is happening internationally in the context of best practice. We would certainly support increased collaboration, and that has happened in the higher education sector in general. Most of the higher education institutions in Ireland are involved in Brazil's science without borders programme. We are currently processing 1,123 students in respect of it and there are more than 1,000 students here already. That is real evidence of increased collaboration. In the context of global relations, the Deputy correctly pointed out that we have not engaged with our alumni in the best way possible. We are exploring a project in Africa at present to engage with our alumni and with friends of Ireland. That project is proceeding on a pilot basis and if it is a success, we will consider the results. We would certainly like to see it rolled out to other more significant markets.