Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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54. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the likely time scale for the opening of an embassy in Thailand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22035/14]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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The Deputy will be aware of the Government Decision of 6 May 2014 regarding the nomination of ambassadors to Embassies abroad, including the Ambassador to Thailand. It should be noted that nominations of ambassadors are subject to the approval (agrément) of the authorities of the receiving States and appointments are not formally confirmed until this approval is forthcoming. In addition, the process of establishing the Embassy in Thailand involves a variety of logistical matters including the identification and arrangement of suitable premises and the engagement of local staff.

I understand that these matters are well in hand but, given the range of issues involved in the establishment process, I hope the Deputy will understand that it is not possible at this point to provide a definite timescale. However, I can confirm that it is the Government's intention that all necessary arrangements will be completed without undue delay so that the new Embassy will be operational as soon as practicable.