Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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139. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the fact that unsuccessful applicants for conflict resolution unit internship positions within his Department are being advised that they have been unsuccessful due to lack of experience; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37336/14]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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The government is committed to developing Irish engagement in international conflict resolution as an important dimension of Irish foreign policy. To support this objective, a paid internship has been in place in my Department’s Conflict Resolution Unit since it was established. The internship, lasting 11-months, is designed to give a graduate in this area an opportunity to gain practical experience in policy development. As outlined in the role specification for the recent internship competition, candidates are required to have, inter alia, a strong interest in conflict resolution, as demonstrated by previous relevant experience, specialised studies or academic training. The role specification also indicated that a postgraduate degree with a focus on conflict resolution and/or peace and security would be desirable.

All applications were carefully considered. Due to the large number of applicants and the high calibre of the applications received, it was necessary to confine the interview process to a number of candidates whose applications most closely matched the requirements of the position, as outlined in the role specification. Unsuccessful candidates were advised of this.

Interest in conflict resolution demonstrated by experience may include voluntary, research, academic and extra-curricular activities. Paid work experience is not a requirement for this internship.