asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is now prepared to recommend to the Government that the request by Israel for residential embassies in both Ireland and Israel be acceded to having regard to the substantially increased diplomatic activity between both states; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Israeli Embassies.
13.
It would be inappropriate and contrary to international practice to speculate publicly on the question of the exchange of resident ambassadors between Ireland and any other country where we do not already maintain a resident embassy as this would be a matter for discussion between the Irish Government and any other Government concerned. The exchange of resident embassies with other countries is a matter which is kept under continuous review in the light of our international interests and the availability of the necessary resources. Given the present economic climate there appears to be little likelihood of expansion in the level of our resident representation abroad for some time.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, we already have diplomatic relations with Israel on a non-residential basis.