Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

There will be combined responsibility. The export council will they chaired by the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. It was previously chaired by a Minister of State. The strategy that was drawn together was largely about how we get the resources we have in the field to work more effectively together. It will now be driven at a much higher level. No criticism is intended of the previous Minister but it will be driven by the Tánaiste.

There will be a very strong focus. I visited India recently which offers opportunities in the education sector. It had not had a visit from an Irish Minister for many years. We are already focusing on growth opportunities and there are many exciting opportunities for Irish companies in growing markets. We need to spend time and it will take time to build a base.

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