Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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150. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will detail the process within his Department for appointing persons as Irish ambassadors to other countries; if he will clarify whether such positions are advertised publicly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31963/22]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Government nominates officers for Ambassadorial posts on foot of proposals made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs.  The nominated Ambassadors are subsequently appointed by the President and take up duty abroad following the receipt of agrément from the receiving State.  Only serving civil servants are considered for ambassadorial assignments. Civil Servants are recruited through publicly advertised competitions administered in line with guidelines issued by the Commission for Public Service Appointments. 

In considering the nomination of Ambassadors, a range of factors is taken into account including political, economic and trade priorities.  In addition, management experience, regional knowledge, country knowledge, policy experience, consular experience, and other factors are considered as part of the assignment process. Foreign language skills, where relevant, are also considered.

Our ambassadors make an excellent contribution to the promotion of Ireland’s interests and values overseas.