Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 861: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the most up-to-date information on his travels 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 total cost. [19198/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I visited Shanghai and Beijing, China, from 13 March to 20 March 2005 for the St. Patrick's Day celebrations to build on the successful visit by the Taoiseach and his delegation to that country.

During my visit, accompanied by my wife and private secretary, I met the Vice-Mayor of Shanghai and the President of Fudan University, Shanghai, where I presented the George Bernard Shaw essay prize. I also met the Vice-Minister responsible for the state environmental protection administration, attended a St. Patrick's Day reception hosted by the ambassador in Beijing and met representatives of the Irish community in both cities. I also attended a presentation, Green Olympics, by the Beijing Olympic Committee. The total cost to my Department amounted to €19,977.

It should be noted that I paid a personal visit to Singapore, at the end of my visit to China, at my own expense. I took the opportunity during this visit to meet the Singapore Minister for the Environment.