Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Is the diplomatic network reviewed annually? Has the Tánaiste given consideration to a review of the necessity for full ambassadors to some of the international organisations? We have had diplomatic relations with the Holy See since 1929. In the sequence of London, Washington and the then League of Nations, it has been one of Ireland's longest established diplomatic relations and is an important listening post.

Is the Tánaiste, in stating that there are no plans to reopen it in the immediate term, reassuring us that he envisages a permanent resident ambassador being appointed in the medium term? While the Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is an extremely able and competent ambassador he is not the least busy official in the Tánaiste's Department. His position is demanding and challenging. While I acknowledge his competence, commitment and ability, is it unreasonable of us to believe he can devote considerable time to that particular post in view of the huge demands on him.

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