Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 192: To ask the Minister for Finance his proposed itinerary for St. Patrick's week celebrations; the areas and countries involved and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6625/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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As has been the case with successive Irish Governments, I will avail of the period around St. Patrick's Day to capitalise on the good will and unparalleled opportunities generated by the celebrations to promote Ireland abroad.

I will visit Atlanta and Savannah, the latter city having probably the largest St. Patrick's Day parade in the US. During my official visit to these two cities, I will attend events organised by the IDA, Enterprise Ireland, Tourism Ireland and the Irish Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America in addition to the traditional functions and parades organised by branches of the local Emerald Society and Hibernian Society.