Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 15 Dec 1999

Vol. 512 No. 7

Written Answers. - Asia Strategy Group Report.

Donal Carey

Question:

83 Mr. D. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has reviewed the Asia strategy group report which was put in place following the Taoiseach's visit to China in 1998; and the nature of the new proposals, if any, that have been put in place. [27246/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. T. Kitt)

Following the Taoiseach's official visit to China in 1998, an Asia strategy group was established under the chair of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to consider how best to increase trade and investment between Ireland and Asia. This group produced a report outlining a strategy for the long-term development of foreign earnings in Asia which was duly approved by the Government.

The report recommended, inter alia, the strengthening of Ireland's diplomatic and promotional presence in the region. In this regard the Government has, in recent months, decided to open a new Irish embassy in Singapore as well as new consulates in Shanghai and Sydney. Furthermore, arrangements have been made to enhance our diplomatic and promotional representation in Tokyo and Beijing.

The Asia strategy group report also recommended that an implementation group be established under the aegis of the foreign earnings committee, comprising public and private sector interests, to oversee the implementation of the Government's long-term foreign earnings strat egy in the region and to report to Government. The report also called for additional resources to be made available to raise awareness of Ireland in the marketplace and to fund target marketing of Ireland to key decision makers in the region. I am happy that additional resources for these purposes have now been secured and I hope to be in a position to appoint the implementation group shortly.