Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 9 and 38 together. Decisions relating to the size and scale of the Irish diplomatic network are matters for consideration by the Government. The scale and presence of the Irish diplomatic network is being considered, along with all aspects of my Department's operations, as part of the Government's comprehensive review of expenditure. Given the current budgetary situation and recognising the role that our diplomatic network is playing in Ireland's economic recovery, adjustments to our diplomatic network will continue to be strategically focused. In short, all our missions abroad must continue to deliver benefits for Ireland and must do so in a manner that represents good value for money.

I assure the Deputies that my objective is to optimise the capability of Ireland's diplomatic network overseas to promote our key objectives abroad, especially support for our economic recovery. This is a key priority for me and one that I stressed yesterday when I addressed the conference of ambassadors being held in my Department. Any expansion of our diplomatic network can, only be undertaken against this background, as I am sure the Deputies will appreciate. At the same time, any proposals to reduce the network must be considered in the same light and balance any potential financial savings that could be achieved against the operational and reputational costs that would be incurred, including writing off investments made over years in the bilateral relationships with the countries in question. At a time when we need as much international support as possible, it is important to get these decisions right.

Ireland has actively developed diplomatic relations with Indonesia since their establishment in 1984. Our diplomatic relations are maintained on a non-resident basis through our embassy in Singapore and through our Irish Honorary Consul based in Jakarta. While Indonesia may not be a priority country under the Government's strategy for trade, tourism and investment to 2015, Irish companies, supported by the embassy and State agencies in Singapore, have been meeting with some business success in areas such as telecommunications, software and education services. Resources are not available at present to establish a resident embassy in Indonesia but the embassy and State agencies in Singapore will continue to support actively Irish companies wishing to do business with and in Indonesia.

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