Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 89: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the fact that Irish Embassies abroad are owned and funded by the taxpayer, he will introduce a scheme whereby embassy buildings of architectural merit are opened to visiting Irish persons for tours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39461/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I welcome the Deputy's suggestion to open Embassies of architectural merit to Irish citizens abroad. Irish Embassies have indeed a long and proud tradition of openness and accessibility to the Diaspora and to visiting Irish citizens.

In response to the Deputy's suggestion, I have asked our Embassies to consider favourably any request from Irish citizens to see Embassy buildings of architectural merit.

Obviously, the normal constraints of security, practicality and resources will pertain. The first priority of an Embassy must be to represent the Government and people of Ireland abroad, including where required providing consular assistance to Irish citizens.