Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 219: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his proposed itinerary for St. Patrick's week celebrations; the areas and countries involved and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6627/05]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Arrangements for attendance at St. Patrick's Day celebrations are not yet fully finalised. However, I am scheduled to represent the Government at events promoting Ireland in Boston before travelling to Washington with the Taoiseach for a number of high level meetings on St. Patrick's Day, including with President Bush. The Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Conor Lenihan, is scheduled to undertake a number of engagements in New Zealand on behalf of the Government.

In consultation with officials of other Departments and relevant agencies as appropriate, this Department will co-ordinate briefing for Ministers representing the Government at St. Patrick's Day events overseas. As in previous years, such briefing will cover a wide range of issues with a view to maximising the unique promotional opportunities offered by the period and to dealing with issues of mutual interest