Billy Timmins
Question:83 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the procedure which is used for the appointment of consuls; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21604/02]
Written Answers. - Diplomatic Representation.
When deciding where honorary consuls of Ireland are to be appointed, I have regard to whether such appointments are justified by the need to provide for the welfare of Irish citizens, both resident and visiting, or by the prospects of developing trade and economic relations with the country or region concerned.
Persons who are appointed as honorary consuls are generally experienced professional or business people who are well established, have good high level contacts in Government and business circles in the country or region concerned and have centrally-located offices suitable for use as a consulate.
When it is considered that an appointment as honorary consul may be justified, suitable candidates who would be willing to undertake the duties involved are identified, usually by the Irish embassy accredited to the country concerned. The matter is then submitted for my consideration.
If it is decided that a particular appointment as honorary consul should be made, it is necessary to seek the agreement of the relevant foreign ministry. When that agreement is received, the nominee is formally offered the position for an initial period of three years which may subsequently be extended by mutual agreement.
When a person formally accepts appointment as honorary consul, a signed letter of commission, which formally confirms the appointment, is sent to the relevant authority in the country concerned which in turn issues anExequatur, which formally approves the appointment. The period of appointment commences on the date of issue of that Exequatur.