asked the Minister for External Affairs if he will state the number of non-nationals employed in our diplomatic establishments abroad (a) in offices or in Official capacities and (b) as house or serving staff and why, in view of the widespread unemployment, these positions are not filled by our nationals in all cases except where reciprocal employment is given by the other countries concerned in their diplomatic offices in Dublin.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Staffing of Diplomatic Establishments.
A total of 53 non-nationals is employed in offices abroad as clerical assistants, stenographers, messengers and cleaners. All such appointments are temporary and the number various from time to time. It would not be feasible for many reasons to appoint Irish citizens to these posts.
Appointment of their domestic staff is a matter for the Department's officers abroad.