Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 75: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if it is correct that the closure of the Vatican embassy and others will now not save €1.2 million and may in fact cost this country more. [1810/12]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The economies that will be achieved by the closure of the Embassies to the Holy See and Tehran and the Irish Aid office in Dili are estimated to amount to €1.175 million over a full year. This figure includes the relocation of the offices of the Embassy to Italy and the residence of the Ambassador to Italy to the state-owned Villa Spada, which will allow for a considerable saving in rent, amounting to €445,000 annually. It is expected that the savings will be fully realised in 2013. However, in 2012, there will be immediate disengagement costs (for example, local staff severance packages, running down of rental and other contracts) and the net savings from the closure this year are estimated at about €480,000. In addition, as a result of the closures, it will be possible to relocate 6 diplomatic staff to help offset staff losses elsewhere in the service.