asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether Córas Tráchtála have any plans to open an office in Birmingham; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Córas Tráchtála Office.
71.
I understand that Córas Tráchtála have no plans at present to open an office in Birmingham. Their offices in London and Manchester cater for the promotion of Irish exports to all parts of Britain.
Is the Minister aware that there is a very strong feeling, particularly among the Irish organisations in Birmingham, as to the desirability of having a Córas Tráchtála office in Birmingham where there is a large Irish population? The Minister for Health and I had the pleasure of being there last year for the annual St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Very strong representations were made to me that it would be a good thing if Córas Tráchtála established some type of agency there, perhaps, not a full-blown office like the one in Manchester. Would the Minister look further into the matter?
I am aware of this feeling to which the Deputy refers, but the location of an office abroad is a matter to be settled by the board of Córas Tráchtála, and is not one in which I would customarily interfere.
I am glad Deputy O'Donnell mentioned that the Minister for Health was there because an article was published saying that the Irish Government had not thought it worth while to send someone to Birmingham.