Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 170: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will be travelling abroad for the St. Patrick's Day festivities; and if so, the location he will be visiting; the functions he will be attending; and the groups he will meet with. [9940/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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St. Patrick's Day is a unique event in the global calendar. On 17 March, the world's attention turns to Ireland and all things Irish. Our national day is celebrated by millions of people from Beijing to Brussels and Sydney to Seattle. This goodwill and attention offers an unrivalled opportunity to promote modern Ireland overseas and to engage directly on a variety of issues. In deciding on Ministerial travel commitments for St. Patrick's Day, the Government has sought to maximise opportunities for showcasing Ireland as a world class economy and tourism destination. Ministers travelling over the period will promote Ireland at business, cultural and community events in more than 35 cities in all corners of the world.

In addition, this year there will be a particular focus on promoting Ireland as a "knowledge economy". Ideas and knowledge have transformed Irish business and industry. Our continued economic development is dependent on further enhancing our position in the globally competitive market for knowledge-driven investment and innovation. Our success in this area is already evidenced by the growing international profile of top level Irish scientists and entrepreneurs, and St. Patrick's Day provides an invaluable opportunity to reinforce this message. St. Patrick's Day is equally an important occasion for enhancing our links with Irish communities abroad. The Government greatly values the opportunity to express our appreciation for the important work of Irish community and friendship groups, and attendance at their community events will form an integral part of Ministerial programmes during the period.

I can confirm to the Deputy that I am travelling to London to participate in the St. Patrick's Day celebrations. As well as being home to the largest Irish communities in the world, Britain is also Ireland's largest trading partner with total trade in 2004 showing a 2.2% increase over 2003. Ireland now accounts for about 11% of total food and beverage imports into the UK. In addition, the Government has made the provision of emigrant services in Britain a priority and last year allocated over €7 million in financial support through the Dion fund to voluntary agencies that help vulnerable Irish people in Britain. The primary emphasis continues to be the provision of assistance to front line Irish community care organisations assisting the more marginalised members of the community in Britain.

I can assure the Deputy that I will be taking full advantage of my visit to promote Ireland as an attractive tourist destination, to further strengthen the links with our emigrant community and to promote business. My itinerary includes: attending the mayor's St. Patrick's dinner; attending the Council of Irish County Associations St. Patrick's Day mass; attending brunch organised by Tourism Ireland; leading the St. Patrick's parade; and visiting the St. Patrick's Day festival exhibition.