Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

It is an interesting time of year, politically and generally. When we speak on the Appropriation Bill, we wander freely and easily across a broad range of Government policy and philosophy. This year, in particular, the Appropriation Bill gives great scope for reflection, consideration and, I suppose, some degree of suggestion.

I was interested in what the previous speaker stated about marketing Ireland. It is important that Ireland strives to present a positive, vibrant, modern image abroad, particularly from the point of view of inward investment. With that in mind, I remind the Minister of a suggestion - this possibly has nothing to do with the Bill but that is the sort of flexibility we are allowed in the Seanad - made on many occasions by one of my former colleagues in the House, former Deputy Austin Deasy, who asked that the Government consider the limited appointment of a number of former politicians to ambassadorial roles. The argument being presented by former Deputy Deasy was that notwithstanding the supreme level of personnel available in the Department of Foreign Affairs, it could be useful for the selling of Ireland abroad and the presentation of a strong and vibrant image of Ireland abroad that former political personnel-----