asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the appointment of ambassadors to Poland or Russia is contemplated; and, if so, the considerations which will be taken into account in reaching a decision.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ambassadors to East European Countries.
18.
As I indicated in reply to a similar question on 29th July, 1971, the matter of establishing diplomatic relations with certain of the countries of eastern Europe is kept under continuing review. If and when it is judged opportune to establish such relations, the Government will not hesitate to take such a step.
There are many considerations to be taken into account including, of course, the possibilities of improving our trade and other commercial prospects in certain markets. I do not feel that it would be appropriate or helpful to speculate in regard to the cases of particular countries.
What interest have the Minister's Department in trade?
We have interest in foreign trade.
I am talking about foreign trade. Have they ever shown any interest in foreign trade?
We have a big interest. It is one of our functions. We have a State body, CTT, also under the Minister for Industry and Commerce.
The Minister is going well. What about the occasion when it was said by a spokesman in our embassy in Paris that they could not be expected to seel boots from door to door? Does the Minister remember that?
We do not expect them to sell boots from door to door.