Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

The Minister mentioned that it would be inappropriate for him to comment, so I assume he means in advance of budgetary estimates. That has not prevented some of his colleagues from commenting. The Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism has stated there should be no cuts, and the Tánaiste seemed to dismiss the McCarthy report today out of hand. The Minister of State is adopting a fairly responsible position. Perhaps he is looking for favour in his application for the EU Commissioner post. I wish him well in his covert - or overt - application.

There is a realisation on this side of the House that changes must be made and some areas will have to suffer because the money is not available. The Minister of State mentioned cutting back the number of embassies from 75 to 55. In doing so we should consider appropriate amalgamations because we export so much. We could develop the Irish house concept as opposed to the stand-alone embassy and Departments having various bodies and facilities abroad. We have approximately ten Irish houses across the globe. We should develop this concept rather than cut back on embassies, as it would lead to rationalisation. It may enhance the service we provide.

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