Diplomatic Representation Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013

Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Questions (121)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

121. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade further to Parliamentary Question No. 66 of 29 May 2013 regarding the use of Corps Diplomatique or CD sign usage on Irish car registration plates, if he will confirm that there is no legislative basis here for the use of these signs despite the existence of the Vienna Convention; if he will outline the other Departments his officials have been engaging with on the identification of vehicles for accredited diplomats; when he expects this review to be complete; if a new piece of legislation will be required to bring the use of these signs into the legal framework of the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27568/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

As outlined in my reply of 29 May 2013, my Department is consulting with the Revenue Commissioners as well as with other European countries concerning CD vehicle identification procedures. It is hoped that this review will be completed by the autumn. There is currently no legislation governing the use of diplomatic licence plates and issue of whether legislation is required in this matter is part of the consultative review process under discussion.