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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Nov 1999

Vol. 509 No. 6

Written Answers. - Diplomatic Representations.

Austin Deasy

Question:

76 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the plans, if any, he has for broadening the base from which diplomats are appointed to incorporate a broad spectrum of Irish society which has been done so successfully by a number of other countries including the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20883/99]

Irish diplomats, like other Irish civil servants, are recruited and appointed by the Civil Service Commissioners in accordance with the Civil Service Commissioners Act, 1956. In its recruitment policy, the Commissioners seek candidates from a wide variety of backgrounds with appropriate capabilities and level of education for appointment to the diplomatic grades in the Department of Foreign Affairs.

I am satisfied that the diplomatic officers in the Department represent a wide spectrum of Irish society. Before joining the Department, many of them have had wide experience working in the private sector as well as in other Departments. Furthermore, their education backgrounds cover a wide range of disciplines, including not only the humanities but also the sciences and business studies.

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