Austin Deasy
Question:53 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he intends changing the system of appointment of Ambassadors in order that people from the private sector can be included. [6820/95]
Written Answers. - Ambassadorial Appointments.
I have no plans to change the present system of appointing ambassadors.
Ambassadors are expected to promote the entire range of Irish interests and concerns overseas, with particular focus on our political and economic interests. It is therefore desirable that they have a wide range of diplomatic experience, a detailed knowledge of the relevant policy areas and an ability to work effectively in a foreign environment.
In my view the knowledge and skills required are best developed over the course of a career in the diplomatic service. For this reason it would not be my intention to change the practice of successive Irish Governments of selecting persons for appointment as ambassadors from among our professional diplomats.