Bernard J. Durkan
Question:129 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the opening of further embassies is contemplated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30650/03]
Written Answers. - Diplomatic Representation.
The spread of resident Irish missions abroad is reviewed by the Government on an ongoing basis, with decisions to open new missions being based on a thorough assessment of the costs and benefits involved.
In 2001, the Government decided to open new embassies in a number of EU candidate countries on a phased basis, subject to the availability of the necessary resources. New embassies have since been established in Estonia, Slovenia, Slovakia and Cyprus, and also in Brazil. We have recently opened offices in Sofia, Bulgaria and Bucharest, Romania to ensure the most effective management of our Presidency of the European Union in these two countries. The opening of additional missions will be kept under ongoing review, including in the context of the availability of resources.