Written answers

Wednesday, 15 January 2014

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Diplomatic Representation

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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86. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the network of Irish embassies abroad has developed its capacity in promoting increased trade between Ireland and the various countries with which we have diplomatic representation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1772/14]

Photo of Eamon GilmoreEamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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The promotion of Ireland’s economic and trading interests overseas is a strategic priority for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and its Embassy network. Alongside its foreign policy, diplomatic and consular functions, the Embassy network is a key platform for the promotion of Ireland’s trade, investment and tourism objectives.

In June 2011, certain trade promotion functions were transferred to my Department from the then Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment. My Department now has responsibility for the management of the Export Trade Council, which I chair. The Export Trade Council’s role is to strengthen cooperation and coordination across all Government Departments and state agencies involved in the promotion and development of trade, tourism and investment and to oversee the coordination and implementation of the Government’s Trade, Tourism and Investment Strategy ‘Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy, 2010 - 2015’.

Following the launch of the Strategy, in September 2010, and based on State agency priorities, a list of 27 priority markets were identified. Local Market Teams were established in each of these, headed by the Ambassador and consisting of representatives of the Embassy and relevant State agencies. These market teams submit annual market plans as well as six-monthly reports of activity, which are reviewed by the Export Trade Council.

This process also facilitates the Department in identifying key challenges and barriers to trade and investment. The Embassy network plays a crucial role in proactively addressing market access issues, supporting Irish businesses seeking to grow overseas; holding promotional events for, and in association, with State agencies and actively contributing to the organisation and conduct of Enterprise Ireland Ministerial-led Trade Missions.

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