Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 41: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to develop closer links with Cuba particularly in relation to trade and tourism. [8871/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Following the visit to Cuba by my predecessor, Micheál Martin, T.D. in February 2009 and a reciprocal visit by the Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parilla to Dublin in May 2009, the two sides agreed to examine how the bilateral relationship between Ireland and Cuba might be taken forward. The levels of trade between Ireland and Cuba are low at present. However, in the course of the meetings to which I have referred, the possibility of developing links in particular areas such as tourism, science and technology was discussed. In the context of the significant resources being allocated by the Cuban Government to the development of new tourist facilities, the possibility of Irish private sector involvement was discussed with the Cuban side. There is already some cooperation between the Cuban side and researchers in the third level sector here, particularly on biotechnology given the strengths both countries have in this field.

Cuba was not identified as a priority market by the relevant State Agencies during the preparation of the current Trade Strategy to 2015 and I would not anticipate that this situation will change in the medium term. However, I can assure the Deputy that any additional potential for trade with Cuba which emerges will be considered by the new Export Trade Council to be established under the Programme for National Recovery. My Department and our Embassy in Mexico, which is accredited to Cuba, will also continue to support the development of links in various sectors where possible and assist on a case by case basis those Irish companies which have an interest in the Cuban market. I might add that our Ambassador was in Havana last month to promote a cultural week organised with the support of my Department. He also discussed our bilateral relationship with the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs during his visit.