Mr. Brian Cotter:

I have just realised that I forgot to answer a question from Senator Walsh, at least I think it was he who asked me about skills in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. If the Senator reads the relevant paragraph, my comment was not necessarily to criticise the Department's new job but I suggest that as this committee scrutinises what needs to happen it should take cognisance of whether the Department has the right skills. Those skills could indeed be delivered by ensuring that there is co-ordinated action between Departments and agencies such as an Ireland House or through more flexible arrangements whereby people would come in on a contract basis from the private sector. The committee should be cognisant that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in its evolving role, as Senator Norris pointed out, would look to people with more experience of international affairs and they are excellent. If the Department is to have a role in promoting investment in trade it would be good for it to consider that mix of skills to make sure that it is successful.