Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 124: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the responsibility his Department has for organising Taoiseach led trade visits. [27363/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Trade missions, including those organised by the relevant State Agencies, are a valuable support to Irish business in developing the exports which are crucial to our economic recovery. This is particularly the case in countries where Government-to-Government contacts are a prerequisite for doing business. My Department and our Embassy network work closely with the agencies and other Government Departments regarding the organisation of such missions, whether led by the Taoiseach or other members of the Government. The Export Trade Council, which I have established in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government and which held its inaugural meeting last week, will also provide a useful forum for discussion of issues relating to trade missions.

I understand that the Taoiseach is planning to lead a trade mission to China in the period ahead once agreement is reached with the Chinese side on suitable dates. Contacts with the Chinese authorities are continuing through our Embassy in Beijing. My Department will be engaged in the co-ordination of this visit with the Department of the Taoiseach, other Government Departments and the State Agencies once the dates are confirmed.