Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 121: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the reason the Irish Embassy in Iran has been closed. [10673/12]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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As I have previously reported to this House, the decision to close the Irish Embassy in Iran was taken following a review of overseas missions carried out by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade which gave particular attention to the economic return from bilateral missions. In light of the current pressures on public finances, the Government decided that the low volume of trade over a prolonged period did not justify maintaining a resident diplomatic Mission in Teheran. Ireland will continue to have full diplomatic relations with Iran and the Government intends to seek the appointment of a non-resident Ambassador. The Government remains committed to maintaining and developing our relations with Iran including, to the extent that it may be possible, in the economic area.