Written answers

Wednesday, 19 February 2014

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Diplomatic Representation

Photo of Patrick O'DonovanPatrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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24. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update on plans to provide new diplomatic missions; and if he will make provision for any other new missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8001/14]

Photo of Ann PhelanAnn Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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36. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to expand Ireland’s network of embassies further; and if an analysis of these embassies will be undertaken as part of the review of the Irish foreign policy consultation process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7998/14]

Photo of Eamon GilmoreEamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 36 together.

The Government is committed to achieving the maximum benefit from the resources we commit to our international engagement and to ensuring that Ireland maintains a position of influence and respect in the global community.

With a view to ensuring that we have the right mix of policies and instruments to promote our values and interests in a complex and changing external environment, I have asked my Department to undertake a review of Ireland’s foreign policy and external relations.

This review is an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue to serve the interests of the Irish people, contributing to their security, prosperity and well-being, and promoting their values, through an active international engagement.

The state’s diplomatic and consular network is at the forefront of efforts to promote our interests and values and in providing important services to the Irish people and business community. At present, Ireland’s diplomatic network includes 56 Embassies, 7 multilateral missions and 10 Consulates General and other offices.

The review will reaffirm the importance of this national resource. Deputies will be aware of the recently announced Government decision to expand the diplomatic and consular network by means of five new Embassies and three new Consulates General in locations across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. This decision provides clarity on the assets which the Government is investing in promoting our engagement in key countries and regions for Ireland and represents an important contribution to the outcome of the review.

The scale and focus of the state’s diplomatic and consular network is considered by the Government on an ongoing basis. Any decision to adjust further our external representation will be taken by the Government having regard to national priorities and available resources.

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