Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Independent)
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41. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the ongoing issues being experienced by Venezuelan students here, who previously accessed the official exchange rate through direct transfers between Venezuela and their language schools, but have now found themselves unable to receive funds due to the closure of their schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19430/14]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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I am aware of difficulties in transferring funds from Venezuela internationally because of a serious shortage there of foreign exchange for either private or business purposes. This is, I am advised, creating difficulties for some Venezuelans living in Ireland and elsewhere abroad as they have been unable to receive funds from Venezuela. At my request, officials of my Department have brought to the attention of the Venezuelan authorities the impact that this issue is having on their citizens in Ireland. I understand that the Venezuelan authorities are introducing changes at present that it is hoped will address foreign currency issues.

With regard to the recent closure of some schools and the impact of this on citizens of various countries, I understand that the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS), the Department of Education and Skills, and Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) are working together on this issue.