Shane Ross (Dublin South, Independent)
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Question 59: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the total value of the property portfolio of his Department including all embassies abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20591/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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All property owned by the State in Ireland is the responsibility of the Office of Public Works. One such property, Iveagh House, is occupied by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The State owns 36 properties abroad. These premises are situated in locations where the Government considers it necessary that Ireland should be represented and where there is a clear economic advantage in owning rather than renting accommodation. Their current estimated book value is of the order of €148 million. However, I would caution that this value will have been affected by the downturn in the property market in many countries.

These properties have been acquired for use as office premises and official Residences of Heads of Mission. They provide platforms to enable our Missions to raise Ireland's international profile and fulfil their varying responsibilities. These include promoting Irish economic interests abroad, providing services to the public and representing the State in international organisations.