Written Answers. - St. Patrick's Day Celebrations.
Jim Higgins
Question:
191
Mr. J. Higgins
asked the
Minister for Justice
the countries recently visited by her in connection with St. Patrick's Day celebrations; the countries visited by the Minister of State in her Department; the composition of the official party; and the total cost to the Exchequer in each case.
My recent official visit to Australia had two purposes. The first was to enable me, on behalf of the Government, to attend various functions associated with the celebrations of St. Patrick's Day in Australia — Irish Government representation at these functions is, incidentally, something which is greatly appreciated by representatives of the large Irish community in that country.
The second purpose was to enable me, again on behalf of the Government, to meet with various State and business representatives in Australia. I was especially pleased to have the opportunity of meeting the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Paul Keating. The fact that the Prime Minister was prepared to take time out from his extremely busy schedule to meet me, literally within hours of his re-election, is I believe a measure of the value which he attaches to his own — and Australia's — links with Ireland. It was particularly useful to have the opportunity of discussing the Northern Ireland talks process, the prospects of increased Irish/Australian trade, the question of Australian contribution to the International Fund for Ireland and other matters with the Prime Minister.
During my visit I also had discussions with State representatives concerning various Justice-related matters. These representatives included the Deputy Prime Minister of Victoria, Mr. Pat McNamara who is also the Minister with responsibility for police and for prisons.
On my return journey through Hong Kong I met with, and formally addressed, senior representatives of a range of business interests. I would like to thank An Bord Tráchtála, in particular, for making the necessary arrangements in this regard.
As the journey was completed only very recently, final details of the cost are not yet available. I will arrange, however, for the details of the cost to be supplied to the Deputy in due course.
My husband travelled with me as did the Secretary of my Department, my Private Secretary and a member of the Garda team responsible for my personal security arrangements.
The Minister of State at my Department did not attend any St. Patrick's Day functions abroad.
