Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I remember a few times coming across people who had been approached to take up the position of honorary consul, but they could not take it up because of work commitments. Where there is a large Irish population and strong Irish groups and cultural organisations, maybe there has been a kind of tardiness in appointing honorary consuls in such areas.

I do not know. It would be useful if we spoke to Mr. Pat Bourne. He would give us an outline of how the process is undertaken, what the proposals are to expand it or whatever. The host country has a say in the appointments being ratified as well. It may not all be straightforward. I do not know the details. I propose with the committee's agreement that we seek a briefing meeting for members of the committee with the director of consular services. Would that be agreeable to the committee?