Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 229: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairsk, in view of the business of attracting and catering for foreign students coming here for higher educational university courses in either the public or private system, the number of embassies abroad that have a designated staff member from the Department of Education and Science or an agency under his remit for such purposes; if same will be listed or the person to whom enquiries and requests for contacts from abroad are referred to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45057/09]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The international education sector makes a significant contribution to the Irish economy. Latest estimates indicate that the overall economic impact from international students in higher education institutes and English language schools in Ireland, including fees, accommodation and living expenses, is over €900 million.

Enterprise Ireland, on behalf of the Minister for Education and Science, has primary responsibility for the marketing and promotion of the "Education Ireland" brand overseas. It takes the lead role in the development, promotion and marketing of international higher education exports in line with overall government strategies.

I believe there is potential for significant further growth. In all our embassies and consulates, the majority of which are small, two-person missions, the promotion of Ireland as a centre of excellence for international education is a core activity. Missions work in close collaboration with Enterprise Ireland, the Department of Education and Science, and other relevant government departments and agencies in this regard.

Currently, fifteen of our embassies and consulates include a staff member from Enterprise Ireland. In other regions, where Enterprise Ireland is located separately from the mission, the two coordinate their activities and work closely together on the ground. No officials from the Department of Education and Science are currently assigned to our overseas missions.