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

I thank the Minister. Many of us have had interaction with the consular services over the years, often when a family in our constituency are facing difficulties with a family member who may be ill or has died abroad. Some months ago the committee heard from Mr. Colin Bell of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust which is involved in bringing back the remains of deceased Irish citizens from Australia, New Zealand, the United States and elsewhere. The consular services provide a wonderful service in helping people when there are sudden deaths of family members abroad. Unfortunately, all members have had to engage with the services for constituents over the years. They, too, appreciate the support of the consular network across the world.