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

I thank Deputy Cowen. When reverting to the Minister, I acknowledge in terms of consular service and assistance the tremendous role being played across the world by our diplomats and those involved in the front line of consular services, with particular reference to Irish citizens who may find themselves for many reasons facing some challenges and difficulties. Can I ask the Minister in that regard if there has been a visible impact in expenditure on emergency consular service in the light of Covid-19 and is that reflected in the numbers over the past year?

Before I hand over to the Minister I notice that Deputy Stanton has a further question.