Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to amend the existing network of embassies and consulates in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3553/13]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Ireland’s diplomatic network includes 56 Embassies, 7 multilateral Missions and 10 Consulates General and other offices overseas. In addition to their country of primary accreditation, many Ambassadors are also accredited to additional countries on a non-resident basis which enhances the cost-effectiveness of our external representation.

The scale and deployment of our diplomatic network is considered by the Government on an ongoing basis. Any decision to adjust the State’s external representation by closing, opening or relocating missions will have regard to national priorities and available resources.