asked the Minister for Foreign Affaris if any instructions have been issued to this country's ambassadors abroad to utilise the communications media for the purpose of countering anti-Irish propaganda; and if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Anti-Irish Propaganda.
18.
It is an important function of Irish diplomatic and consular missions abroad to keep in touch with news media in their areas and to try, so far as they can, to ensure that an accurate and informed view of Ireland is made available at all times, and that any distortions are corrected.
My Department and our missions abroad are well aware of the particular importance of this aspect of their functions at present and the Department is in regular contact with the missions in regard to it.
Will the Minister state how successful these measures have been in countering anti-Irish propaganda?
This is a very difficult matter to quantify. They are as successful as our energies can make them successful.
Would the Minister not agree that there is an intensive anti-Irish campaign abroad?
There is an intensive pro-Irish campaign going on as well. I am sure the House and the Deputy are well aware of that.
It is not half as successful as the anti-Irish campaign.
Would the Minister not set up a body such as the news agency we had many years ago? Would the Minister not agree that, due to our lack of propaganda, if you like, many people abroad believe that the people killed on Bloody Sunday were shot by subversive elements in the North? That is a statement being put out.
The Deputy and the House will appreciate that propaganda and talking about these things can be very counter-productive. The important thing is to go and do something and we are doing something.