Aubrey McCarthy (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I commend the outstanding work of our embassy staff across the world. I know it has been mentioned by many of my colleagues. These dedicated men and women are the face of Ireland abroad. They work tirelessly to promote our culture, our economy and, of course, our global influence. I recently had the honour of meeting the team at the embassy in London when they celebrated St. Patrick’s Day. I was deeply impressed by their professionalism and commitment. They are absolutely instrumental in strengthening our ties with our partners and in supporting Irish businesses and ensuring Ireland Inc. continues to thrive on our world stage. With St. Patrick’s Day just behind us, we have again seen the vital role our embassies play in showcasing Ireland at the highest levels.

I also take the opportunity to compliment An Taoiseach, Deputy Martin, on his recent visit to Washington and on meeting with President Trump. We were all on tenterhooks as we wondered how it was going to go, but his leadership and diplomacy in representing Ireland on such a significant occasion is to be applauded. These engagements reaffirm our strong and enduring relationship with the United States, which remains critical for trade, for investment and for our diaspora. I acknowledge and celebrate, as I think we should in this House, the immense contribution of our embassy staff and also Tourism Ireland for what they do on a world stage.