Dan Neville (Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The mission of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is to promote and protect the value, interests and economic well-being of Ireland abroad. It works towards the strategic goal of using its full resources at its headquarters and across its embassy network to promote Ireland’s economic and trading interests, cultural profile and international reputation. The work of our embassies and diplomatic corps is not recognised as much as it should be. While many in the Civil Service see it as a glamorous posting, it can be a day-to-day hard grind dealing with, for example, our European affairs in trying to solve our economic problems. Their role needs to be recognised in promoting trade and good will for the State. Economic diplomacy has long been an important aspect of the Department’s work and its embassy network. Embassies and consulates work to support the development of Ireland’s exports, attract foreign direct investment, promote Ireland as a tourism destination and enhance its profile and reputation.

While we have recognised the embassies, we should recognise the work done by the consulates, much of which is voluntary, is also extremely important. On various trips abroad we have seen the excellent work being done by the consulate service and should recognise that most of it is done on a voluntary basis.

The central role of economic diplomacy in the work of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade was recognised explicitly in 2011 when responsibility for certain trade promotion functions was transferred to the Department from the then Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation. This was a new departure for the State in terms of the role of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. We must recognise how successful this move has been and the opportunities it presents for the future.

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