Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 307: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on reports suggesting that a large amount of money is being spent on upgrading the Irish Ambassador to Canada's residence; if this amount was sanctioned by his Department in its entirety; and if the amount spent represents an average for such upgrading. [8701/10]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Ambassador's Residence in Ottawa was acquired by the State in 1960. Only modest investments were made in its upkeep over the years and it had long been in need of substantial refurbishment. In 2006, my Department was advised that total renovation was required to address a wide range of serious structural and maintenance issues. Some of these problems were aggravated by the long term cumulative impact of the severe local climate.

A number of extensions to the property were found to be structurally flawed and had to be demolished and replaced. Large quantities of asbestos were discovered in the building and all services including electrical, heating and air conditioning had to be renewed or upgraded to conform to contemporary local legal codes. The alternatives, including relocation, were examined. However, the necessary renovations mitigated against the sale of the property. It was concluded that refurbishment and retention was the most cost- effective option.

The decision was taken to renovate and upgrade the property so it could serve as a multi- purpose "Ireland House" type amenity to enhance the Embassy's capacity to promote all aspects of Ireland especially trade and culture and provide conference and presentation facilities for use by State Agencies, Irish companies and artists. The majority of the space is used for representational and support services. The Ambassador's personal living quarters occupy only a relatively limited area.

The renovated premises represent a valuable asset for the State and a resource in the consolidation and enhancement of our important relationship with Canada with whom we have many shared foreign policy values. It is the world's seventh largest economy and a member of the G8. Ireland is currently the fifth largest recipient of Canadian outward investment and Canada is a growing market for Irish companies. Our merchandise exports there increased by 12% in 2009 despite the economic downturn. Some 4 million Canadians (12% of the population) claim Irish descent.

I can assure the Deputy that the project was rigorously monitored and all tender and approval procedures were strictly adhered to. Tenders were sought locally on an open competitive basis and the contract was awarded to the lowest bidder in accordance with normal procedures. All expenditure was duly sanctioned by my Department. However, it is not possible to compare the cost of the work in terms of an average, due to differences in individual buildings and market conditions in various locations.

Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 308: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if any Irish embassies and-or diplomatic residences are in the process of being upgraded; if so, the list of same; and the expected cost for same. [8702/10]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table.