Written answers

Tuesday, 12 April 2005

Department of Foreign Affairs

Ministerial Travel

9:00 pm

Photo of Bernard AllenBernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 442: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he travelled abroad for the St. Patrick's Day celebrations; the persons who travelled with him in his official party; the duration of the visit and the cost involved. [10175/05]

Photo of Dermot AhernDermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the period around St. Patrick's Day offers unparalleled opportunities to promote Ireland around the world, particularly in the United States. I travelled to the United States from 11 to 18 March to represent the Government at St. Patrick's Day events in Boston before accompanying the Taoiseach to Washington.

In Boston, in addition to meetings with Irish immigration groups, I attended a number of promotional events hosted by Irish and Irish-American organisations and State agencies. I also addressed the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government and European Studies Centre on current international issues and updated key contacts on recent developments in Northern Ireland. I also discussed both Northern Ireland and inward investment issues with the Governor of Massachusetts. My wife, the Secretary General of my Department, my special adviser, my press adviser, the director of the Irish abroad unit and my private secretary travelled to Boston in the official party.

In Washington, I accompanied the Taoiseach to meetings with President Bush and Members of Congress. In addition, I met the US Deputy Secretary of State and the National Security Advisor. I was accompanied by the Secretary General of my Department, the political director, my special adviser, my press adviser and my private secretary.

The overall costs of the visit are not yet available.

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