Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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120. To ask the Taoiseach further to his announcement in Toronto regarding doubling Ireland's global footprint by 2025, the way in which this will be achieved; and if finances will be made available for same. [39106/17]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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While in Canada recently I announced a plan to double Ireland’s global footprint by 2025.

It is clear that there is a new self-confidence in Ireland, as an island at the centre of the world and that national self-confidence requires that we always be ambitious, visible and active in promoting the interests of our nation on the international stage.

I expect that this initiative will involve new and augmented diplomatic missions, as well as an increased presence of our investment, tourism, cultural and food agencies overseas.

I have asked relevant Ministers, including the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, to contribute to development of a plan to achieve this. This will include consideration of the resource implications, including identifying where efficiencies can be achieved through innovative approaches and potential savings elsewhere.

Expanding our global presence will help to drive efforts to diversify and grow trade, including in the context of Brexit; enhance our ability to attract investment to Ireland; as well as help us to strengthen links with our diaspora; and to advance our values, interests, reputation and impact internationally.