Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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35. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the proposals, if any, he has to review the Diplomatic Service; if there are proposals to open new consulates/embassies in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23204/13]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Ireland’s diplomatic network includes 56 embassies, seven multilateral missions and ten 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. These include representing and advancing Government policies with other States and in international organisations, in particular the EU and the UN; economic and cultural promotion; frontline consular and passport services to Irish citizens overseas; engaging with Irish communities and harnessing the resource they offer in assisting economic recovery; and programme management, particularly in Irish Aid priority countries.

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.