Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 58: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the details of the expenses incurred for recent travel and subsistence for all the ambassadors that were recalled to Dublin for the meetings on 1 and 2 June with him and the Taoiseach; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16240/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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As envisaged in the Programme for Government, I convened a conference of Ireland's Head of Mission abroad in Iveagh House on 1/2 June. The purpose was to ensure that our Mission network is fully briefed on the Government's new approach to promoting and marketing Ireland as a country to do business in, and strengthen their capacity to continue their ongoing work in support of the effort to repair Ireland's international reputation. The programme included a session with the State economic promotional agencies on how best to address the challenges we face and dialogue with senior representatives of the business sector on the support provided by Missions to our companies abroad and how this might be further strengthened. Every effort was made to minimise the costs associated with the conference. Specific travel and subsistence arrangements were put in place for the event. These mandated economy-class travel for all participants, including those travelling long-distance and requested Heads of Mission to make private arrangements for accommodation. Where this was not possible vouched expenses to a maximum of €75 per night were payable.

As of 17 June, claims for travel and subsistence have been received from 17 Heads of Mission totalling €3,567. It is expected that further claims will be received in the coming weeks.

In addition 45 airfares, all of which were for economy-class travel, have been paid totalling €31,433.