Diplomatic Representation Expenditure

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 November 2012

Tuesday, 20 November 2012

Questions (169)

Robert Dowds

Question:

169. Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Ireland has embassies physically located in each of the G20 countries, particularly Brazil, South Africa, Mexico, Argentina, South Korea, Indonesia, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, and in the case of any of these countries where we do not currently have an embassy, if there are plans to open embassies in these countries to more accurately reflect the changing nature of the global economy. [51465/12]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Ireland’s diplomatic network includes 56 Embassies, 7 multilateral Missions and 10 Consulates General. This includes Brazil, South Africa, Mexico, Argentina, South Korea, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Our Ambassador to Singapore is accredited to Indonesia on a non-resident basis.

The size and scale of our diplomatic network is considered by the Government on an ongoing basis. Any decision to adjust the State’s external representation by closing, opening or relocating missions, will have regard to national priorities and available resources.