Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

47. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of honorary consuls he has appointed; the names and occupations of the honorary consuls appointed; where these honorary consuls have been appointed; the criteria that is required for such an appointment to this position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41208/13]

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

I have appointed seventeen Honorary Consuls as follows:

Appointments of Honorary Consul are made if a need is identified for consular assistance or services to Irish citizens, or in some locations, with assistance in the promotion of Trade. In general the Irish Ambassador accredited to a country will make a proposal for the appointment of an Honorary Consul if s/he identifies a specific need and has also identified a suitable candidate or suitable candidates. The main criteria considered when appointing an Honorary Consul include familiarity with the local Irish Community, familiarity with the local administration, a good knowledge of the local laws particularly in areas which have a consular dimension and a good knowledge of the local language.