asked the Minister for External Affairs if he is aware of the extensive criticism made in commercial and business circles as to the lack of expert and adequate information services on trade from our Consulates in foreign countries, and whether he will consider the matter, with a view to having such information made available on request, and also consider the desirability of appointing trade commissioners in those countries with which we have considerable trading relations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Trade Information Services.
I am aware of the criticism referred to in the Deputy's question, and, to a certain extent, feel that that criticism is justified. The difficulties leading to the criticism referred to are due to the interest of other Government Departments in matters relating to foreign trade. I am, at the moment, examining the possibility of establishing a foreign trade section, wherein all matters relating to foreign trade could be centralised. If this proposal can be put into operation, it will obviate the necessity, at present imposed on business people, to go from Department to Department in order to secure the information and licences they need.
I should like to make it clear, however, that the criticism directed at our foreign missions is often due to a misconception of a function of our missions abroad. Their function is, undoubtedly, to help the promotion of trade, but they cannot assume the responsibility of acting as commercial agents for the purpose of marketing or purchasing goods on behalf of individual commercial firms.
Our Legations and Consulates are at all times prepared to supply to Irish firms, on request, such information on trade matters as they have available or can be obtained by them within the limit of their functions. I should like business firms who are interested in foreign trade to avail as fully as possible of our Legations and Consulates for this purpose.