Wednesday, 18 Sep 2013

Written Answers Nos. 63-83

UN Issues

Questions (63)

Michael McNamara

Question:

63. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if it is intended to continue to support the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Integrated Border Control project in the Islamic Republic of Iran, aimed at strengthening the drug interdiction capacity of the Iranian anti-narcotics police in view of the fact that at least 314 persons were executed there in 2012, many after conviction for drugs related offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36856/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Joe Costello)

Through the aid programme, the Government has provided funding to the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which is based in Vienna, in support of its mandate to assist Member States in their efforts to fight illicit drugs, crime and terrorism. Ireland’s support has included funding for the UNODC programme to restrict the flow of opiates from Afghanistan and Pakistan, through Iran, to Europe and elsewhere. In the years 2010, 2011 and 2012, Ireland provided a total of €100,000 annually to the UNODC. In 2010 and 2011, €60,000 of this annual funding was provided to the Organisation’s illicit trafficking and border management component in Iran. This funding has now ceased. In 2012, Ireland provided €60,000 for the Organisation’s Drug Demand Reduction and HIV Control programme in Iran. This programme is designed to reduce addiction and the incidence of HIV among drug-users in Iran. It does not involve support to law enforcement agencies or to the criminal justice system in Iran.

EU Funding

Questions (64)

Finian McGrath

Question:

64. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will end all Irish and EU funding to the Orange Order until sectarian violence ends. [36883/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

The EU PEACE III Programme aims to promote peace and reconciliation through measures which specifically encourage a cross-community focus. Projects administered by the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland must satisfy strict criteria to receive EU PEACE III funding and are monitored in this regard by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and the relevant lead departments; the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government and the relevant Departments in Northern Ireland. My Department’s Reconciliation and Anti-Sectarianism funds have supported community and educational outreach activities by individual Orange lodges both in Northern Ireland and in this jurisdiction. Each project application is assessed individually and the purpose of any funding is to support local initiatives aimed at tackling sectarianism. It is the responsibility of individual lodges in receipt of government funding to honour their obligations to address sectarianism. Each project in receipt of funding is assessed and reviewed. Only projects which have met the criteria of the Funds are considered for further funding. I believe that funding has helped support progress towards greater reconciliation in Northern Ireland and on an all-island basis, built on meaningful dialogue based on the principle of respect. In this context, I welcomed the decision by the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland to allow individual Orange lodges to engage in discussions with community and residents’ groups.

More progress is required. The events of this Summer, and the ongoing protest parades in Ardoyne point to a need to progress meaningful dialogue further and I again urge the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, and all Loyal Orders, to promote and to engage in dialogue based on the principle of respect with residents’ groups.

Exports Data

Questions (65, 107)

Colm Keaveney

Question:

65. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the target for goods exports to be achieved in 2013; the measures he has taken to encourage trade in our goods exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36927/13]

Colm Keaveney

Question:

107. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his Department's target for goods exports for 2013; his estimate that the outturn for 2013; his Department's target for 2014; the activities to increase trade he has scheduled between now and the end of the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37859/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I propose to take Questions Nos. 65 and 107 together.

The total value of goods exports in 2012 was €92 billion, representing an increase of 0.9% on the 2011 figure (€91 billion), while goods exports for the first seven months of 2013 reached €51 billion; a decrease of 5.8% on the same period in 2012 (€54 billion). This decrease in goods exports is largely explained by a sharp, but not unexpected, fall in chemical and pharmaceutical products, which account for 60% of our goods exports. In this connection, the patent cliff has been well signalled and is built into the Government’s approach to encouraging export growth.

The Export Trade Council (ETC), which I chair and which includes representatives from the relevant Departments and state agencies, oversees the implementation of the targets in the Government’s Trade, Tourism and Investment Strategy; ‘Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy, 2010 – 2015 ’. The Strategy does not provide a breakdown of goods exports targets on a yearly basis but does set out concrete targets in trade, tourism and investment to be met by 2015, as well as a programme of actions to achieve these targets. Relating specifically to exports, these targets include: increasing the value of exports by agency assisted indigenous companies by 33% and diversifying the destination of indigenous exports. Progress in meeting these targets is evaluated by Forfás and is reviewed during the bi-annual ETC meetings. In May of this year, I reported to Government that with close collaboration between the Embassy network, state agencies and relevant Departments, progress towards the 2015 targets is continuing and is on track.

My Department and its Embassy network support Enterprise Ireland Ministerial led trade missions, which make a significant contribution to encouraging trade in our goods exports. In 2012, trade missions organised with the active support of the Embassy network and involving Enterprise Ireland client companies, secured over €200 million in new and additional contracts. This year, I led a trade mission to Turkey during which contracts of over €30 million were agreed. My colleague, the Minister of State for Trade and Development, Mr. Joe Costello TD., has led trade missions to Canada and Benelux; and will also lead a trade mission to South Africa & Nigeria in November.

Over the St. Patrick’s Day period, I attended the IDA event, ‘Invest in Ireland’ Business Leaders Forum, organised in conjunction with our Consulate General in Atlanta, as well as holding a number of meetings with major US and Irish companies operating in the area. My programme for Washington DC included meetings with President Obama and Secretary of State Kerry, and a number of high level political meetings during which the Transatlantic Trade & Investment Partnership and Ireland’s economic recovery were among the items discussed.

My Department also co-ordinates Joint Economic Commissions (JECs) with a number of high growth and emerging countries: Republic of Korea, Russia, China, Saudi Arabia and Libya (currently in abeyance). The focus of JEC discussions with these countries is on key priority sectors for the Irish export sector and for inward investment into Ireland. In 2012, my Department, in close collaboration with the relevant Departments and state agencies, held JECs with China and the Republic of Korea and is in the process of organising JECs with Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Foreign Conflicts

Questions (66)

Seán Crowe

Question:

66. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to a recent case in which it is reported that Israeli soldiers illegally detained a five year old child in Hebron; that the age of criminal responsibility for Israelis and Palestinians is 12 years old and it is forbidden by law to detain or arrest a child under the age of 12; and if he will raise the case with the Israeli authorities and ask for an explanation for what appears to be the routine procedure of detaining Palestinian children illegally. [36930/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. According to reports received, an incident occurred on the afternoon of 9 July 2013 when seven Israeli Defence Force soldiers and an officer were involved in detaining a five-year-old Palestinian child. The child was detained in Hebron after he reportedly threw a stone at a car belonging to a settler. I understand that he was taken home and then transferred with his father to the Palestinian police. No charges were filed and both father and son were released. Under Israeli military law the age of criminal responsibility is 12. Ireland has raised this incident in human rights discussions with EU partners in Israel, and it was agreed that the EU will include this incident in human rights concerns raised in the context of EU political dialogue with Israel. The EU has developed agreed priority actions on the protection of children in armed conflict as part of the EU strategy on human rights in Israel. The Israeli Defence Forces has stated it has put in place measures to prevent recurrence of such incidents. The Irish Embassy in Israel will continue to closely monitor the situation.

Military Aircraft Landings

Questions (67)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

67. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 562 of 9 July 2013 and 164 of 16 July 2013, the number of notifications given to his Department when military or State aircraft applied for authorisation traffic rights when carrying Heads of State or Heads of Government from other nations in the past five years; the number that have been approved and rejected; if he will outline in tabular form the nations involved and the date of each landing here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36991/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

The Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order 1952 gives the Minister for Foreign Affairs primary responsibility for the regulation of activity by foreign military aircraft in Ireland. My Department’s records indicate that permission was granted for the landing of 51 foreign government/ military aircraft carrying Heads of State or Heads of Government from other nations. Permission was granted in all cases, subject to the normal conditions that apply to landings at Irish airports by foreign military aircraft: namely that the aircraft are unarmed, carry no arms, ammunition or explosives and do not engage in intelligence gathering and that the flights in question do not form any part of military exercises or operations. In the vast majority of cases, military aircraft used the landing facilities at Dublin Airport for the transport of dignitaries or other persons participating in high-level meetings in Ireland, however, in some cases landings may include stopovers for re-fuelling, for example.

Nuclear Plants

Questions (68)

Finian McGrath

Question:

68. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he and the EU accept that there is no nuclear site near Teheran in Iran and if he will actively support the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. [37005/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

In his latest report to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors (and, in parallel, to the United Nations Security Council) regarding the implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement and relevant provisions of Security Council resolutions in the Islamic Republic of Iran (report dated 28 August 2013), the IAEA Director General has stated again that the Agency is not in a position to clarify the outstanding issues which it has raised with Iran regarding Iran's nuclear programme.Under its Safeguards Agreement with the IAEA, Iran has declared to the Agency a total of seventeen nuclear facilities and nine locations outside facilities (LOFs) where nuclear material is customarily used. While, as the IAEA report notes, certain activities at some of these facilities contravene resolutions of the IAEA Board of Governors and of the UN Security Council, the Agency nevertheless continues to verify the non-diversion of declared material at these facilities and LOFs. However, the Agency also reports that, because Iran is not providing the necessary level of cooperation to the IAEA in the conduct of its verification activities, and by virtue of the fact that Iran has not implemented its Additional Protocol, which would facilitate enhanced verification, the Agency is simply unable to provide credible assurances to the international community regarding the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities in Iran. For this reason, it is unable to conclude that all nuclear material in Iran is for exclusively peaceful activities. This is not acceptable.

To restore international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of its nuclear programme, I believe it is now essential for Iran to move quickly to engage with the IAEA to resolve all outstanding issues which the Agency has raised on behalf of the international community regarding Iran's nuclear programme and activities.

The Deputy knows that Ireland has chosen not to use nuclear power for the generation of electricity, but that we recognise the sovereign entitlement of each State to decide upon its own energy mix. We support the entitlement of States, including Iran, to access nuclear energy for peaceful uses under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). It is essential, however, that in claiming this entitlement under the NPT, all States, without exception, recognise that they are obliged to demonstrate the exclusively peaceful nature of their nuclear activities through the IAEA safeguards system. Iran has not yet moved to fully meet this requirement and I call upon it to do so.

The Deputy may be assured that Ireland will continue to support fully the NPT in all fora. It contains the only Treaty obligation upon the nuclear weapons states to disarm, and is a cornerstone of the international nuclear non-proliferation architecture.

Departmental Funding

Questions (69)

Seán Crowe

Question:

69. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide in tabular form the organisations awarded funding from his Department under the annual civil society funding round for 2013; the amount requested by each organisation; the amount awarded to each organisation; his views on the quality of applications; his Department's appraisal process and the criteria used to award grants. [37006/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Joe Costello)

The Government’s aid programme, which is managed by Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is sharply focused on the fight against global poverty and hunger, particularly in sub Saharan Africa. Our partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations represents a very important element in this effort. Funding for small to medium-sized development projects is primarily allocated through the Irish Aid Civil Society Fund. Applications are invited each year for new projects of up to three years in duration, with a maximum annual grant allocation of €200,000. The call for proposals for the 2013 funding round was issued to all eligible Irish NGOs in February 2013. A limited number of international organisations were also invited to submit proposals, based on specific policy priority areas. The particular priority areas for the funding round were the fight against global hunger, the promotion of human rights, gender inequality and the prevention of gender-based violence. Standard eligibility criteria applied, including confirmation of an organisation’s charitable status, public availability of audited accounts and a dependency limit on Aid funding of below 60%.

It is a requirement that all projects funded have a strong focus on delivering results for communities in some of poorest regions of the world. Irish Aid engages independent external professionals to carry out the technical appraisal of the project proposals and to make recommendations to an Approvals Committee in Irish Aid. All applications are appraised on the following criteria:

evidence that the organisation operates from a sound strategic policy and financial basis;

proven evidence of outcomes from previous projects;

logic of the intervention;

evidence of capacity to track results;

governance and financial oversight;

coherence with the policies of the aid programme.

In total, 23 applications were received for funding in the 2013 Civil Society Funding round and, of these, 17 were approved as set out in the following table:

Name of Organisation	Total Amount Requested for Project	Total Amount Approved for Project	Project Duration Years
Bóthar	€600,000	€600,000	2013-2015
Christina Noble Children's Foundation	€37,300	€37,300	2013
ECPAT International	€450,000	€450,000	2013-2015
Edith Wilkins Street Children Foundation	€185,700	€37,800	2013
Global Witness Trust	€600,000	€600,000	2013-2015
International Commission of Jurists	€316,400	€316,400	2013-2014
International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH)	€600,000	€600,000	2013-2015
Irish Family Planning Association	€600,000	€250,000	2013-2014
Irish National Teachers Organisation	€34,150	€10,000	2013
Martin Ennals Foundation	€120,000	€105,000	2013-2015
Nepal Leprosy Trust (NLT)	€83,300	€75,800	2013-2015
The Social & Health Education Project	€386,840	€386,400	2013-2015
The Spiritan Zambia Orphan Fund	€29,900	€10,000	2013
The Support Africa Foundation	€517,200	€100,000	2013
UCC - Department of Food Business & Development, UCC	€166,434	€32,000	2013
UPR- INFO	€180,000	€120,000	2013-2014
Wateraid UK	€449,611	€449,611	2013-2015

Ministerial Meetings

Questions (70)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

70. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his recent engagements with the Governor of the US State of California, Jerry Brown, on his recent visit here in July 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37030/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I met with the Governor of California, Mr Jerry Brown, on 15 July last in the course of his private visit to Ireland. Governor Brown and I had a very useful meeting on a range of issues. We discussed the common economic issues facing both Ireland and California – the challenges in the global economic environment, tackling public finances and our shared interest in key sectors like technology and clean energy. Many Californian multinationals have operations and create jobs here in Ireland, which has been and remains enormously beneficial to our economy. Similarly California is a key centre for Irish companies with over 50 Irish companies having offices there and a further eight to ten new operations established in California by Irish companies each year, mostly technology companies. The trend is increasing and Governor Brown and I were pleased to note that the economic relationship between Ireland and California is very strong. We spoke too about our strong cultural and community links.

The Governor and I also discussed the prospects for comprehensive US immigration reform, which is an important issue for California, as well as being of particular interest to us with regard to the undocumented Irish in the USA.

EU Meetings

Questions (71)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

71. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the outcomes of the Foreign Affairs Council that took place in Brussels on 22 July 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37073/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I attended the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council which took place in Brussels on 22 July last.As the Deputy will be aware, a wide range of issues were discussed at the Council meeting and important Conclusions were agreed across a number of key policy areas; these Conclusions may be accessed on the official EU website http://www.consilium.europa.eu/ueDocs/cms_Data/docs/pressData/EN/foraff/138317.pdf. High Representative (HR) Ashton’s opening remarks touched upon Water Diplomacy and the critical importance of water security for international peace and security, and an update on the situation in Myanmar/Burma. Council conclusions were adopted on both of these issues.

There followed a discussion on the latest developments in some of Africa’s most troubled and conflict ravaged regions – the Great Lakes, Somalia and Mali.

On the Great Lakes, Ministers welcomed the Framework Agreement for Peace, Security and Cooperation and the appointment of Mary Robinson as the UN Secretary General’s Special Envoy to oversee the implementation of the Agreement, which offers an important opportunity to bring a resolution to the crisis. On Somalia, we welcomed the announcement of details for the New Deal Conference in Brussels on 16 September. This event represents a concrete demonstration of the progress that Somalia has made towards re-establishing peace, stability and security. Ministers also acknowledged the significant positive progress that has been made since the French-led intervention in Mali earlier this year, and underlined the importance of the elections as the next major step forward in the process of full restoration of constitutional order on the whole territory of Mali.

In my intervention under this item, I emphasised the critical importance of breaking the cycle of violence in all three conflicts. I particularly welcomed the Framework Agreement on the Great Lakes and articulated Ireland’s strong support for the role of the UN Special Envoy Mary Robinson. On Somalia, I welcomed the holding of a Conference in September and recalled Ireland’s ongoing commitment to the country, with over €41million provided to aid agencies operating in Somalia since 2007. I also paid tribute to the important work being carried out by the EUTM Somalia. Finally, on Mali, I joined with other Ministerial colleagues in acknowledging the significant advances that have been made over the last few months.

Ministers engaged in an extensive discussion on the unfolding political crisis in Egypt. HR Ashton briefed us on her recent trip to Cairo and her meetings with the interim Presidency, the Egyptian Army and representatives from the Muslim Brotherhood. I and other colleagues emphasised the importance of ending violence and starting a fully inclusive political dialogue as the only real way out of the crisis. I took the opportunity to thank HR Ashton and her team – notably the EU Special Representative Bernardino León – for their work in Egypt. We adopted Council Conclusions, which inter alia urged the interim authorities to act with restraint, and drew attention to the critical economic situation in the country.

In the human rights area, the Council discussion focused on implementation of the EU Strategic Framework and Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy as adopted in June 2012. Ministers expressed their full support for the implementation of the human rights package and the work done to date by the EU Special Representative in highlighting the EU’s policies on human rights. In my intervention I drew particular attention to the increasing threat to civil society in many countries. In this regard, I informed partners of an Irish initiative for a resolution on space for civil society, that has been introduced at the current session of the Human Rights Council running until the end of September.

The discussion on Eastern Partnership preceded a meeting of EU and Eastern Partnership countries which took place directly after the Council. EU Foreign Ministers reviewed progress in relation to Associated Agreements and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas (DCFTAs) with the Eastern partner countries in advance of the Vilnius Summit at the end of November.

On Syria, there was a short exchange of views over lunch on the state of play at that time. Clearly the situation has deteriorated dramatically since our July discussions, but at the Council meeting, I joined with my Ministerial colleagues in emphasising the importance of the ‘Geneva II’ process and repeating Ireland’s commitment to do the maximum to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.

Ministers discussed the latest developments in the Middle East Peace Process. The Council welcomed the resumption of direct negotiations between the two parties, paying tribute to US Secretary of State John Kerry’s efforts in this regard, and discussed ways in which the EU could support the process. In my intervention, I highlighted ongoing concerns regarding Settlement activity and the viability of the Two-State solution, and welcomed the fact that Ministers would return to a discussion on the Peace Process in the autumn.

Finally, the Council discussed issues relating to Lebanon and agreed to designate the Military Wing of Hezbollah on the list of terrorist organisations. This decision does not prevent our ongoing dialogue with all political parties in Lebanon, or the delivery of EU assistance to the country. The position will be reviewed on a six monthly basis in keeping with the regular timeframe for reviewing such decisions.

Diplomatic Representation

Questions (72)

Eoghan Murphy

Question:

72. Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when an Irish consul will be appointed to Libya; when an Irish embassy will be established in Libya; and if the Libyan National Transitional Council has offered to fund an Irish embassy in Tripoli. [37108/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

The scale and deployment of our diplomatic and honorary consul network is considered by the Government on an ongoing basis taking account also of the resources available to us at this time. There are no immediate plans to appoint an Honorary Consul in Libya nor to establish an Embassy there.

My Department is unaware of any offer to fund an Embassy having being made by the Libyan Transitional National Council, which was superseded in 2012 by the current Libyan Government and the National Assembly.

Rapid Response Initiative

Questions (73)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

73. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will outline current operations of Ireland’s humanitarian standby roster, the Rapid Response Corps; the number of applications received during the 2013 recruitment drive; the number of persons called for interview; if he will provide details on the number of persons successful in the interview stage before moving onto the second stage of the recruitment process, a two-part training course; the number of persons he intends to bring onto the 2013 roster as a result of this initiative; the way this recruitment drive was communicated and if his Department went to lengths to seek the most suitably qualified persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37111/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Joe Costello)

Ireland’s Rapid Response Corps is made up of highly-skilled experts who can be deployed at short notice to assist in emergency relief efforts in different parts of the world. When deployed, Corps members primarily fill specific skills gaps identified by four UN standby partner organisations: the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR); the World Food Programme (WFP); the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA); and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The roster currently comprises 192 individuals with specialised skills in areas such as child protection, gender, humanitarian coordination, information management, logistics, public health, and WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene). The 2013 recruitment exercise is intended to increase the number of experts on the roster and strengthen capacity in specific areas. Ireland’s Rapid Response Corps is in high demand and members fill key skill gaps in humanitarian emergencies, a testament to the effectiveness of the recruitment and training process over the past number of years. Since the establishment of the Corps in 2007, members of the roster have deployed on 206 occasions to 42 countries. There are currently 13 members from the roster on deployment in 8 countries (Egypt, Ethiopia, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Pakistan, Somalia and South Sudan) supporting the humanitarian relief operations of our UN partner agencies.

Recruitment of Rapid Response Corps roster members is undertaken on an annual basis through a panel interview process. The 2013 recruitment notice was advertised on the Irish Aid website, the Dóchas (Irish NGO umbrella body) website and through the communication channels of UN Standby Partner agencies. My office received a total of 57 applications and following a short-listing process, 35 people were called for interview.

Short-listing is based on an assessment of the quality of applications received. Roster members are required to hold an appropriate technical qualification and possess substantial relevant professional experience, preferably in a humanitarian context, demonstrate a commitment to humanitarian values, and be in a position to deploy at short notice for periods of 3 to 6 months.

The 2013 recruitment process is still ongoing. Panel interviews were completed on Wednesday 11th September and the Interview Board report and decisions are currently being considered for approval by my officials. Successful candidates will be invited for induction training, which will take place from the 14th to the 24th of October 2013. This training course, which can cater for up to 20 people, is mandatory for deployment and is delivered in partnership with the Irish Defence Forces.

The subsequent selection of roster members for deployment is undertaken by the UN agencies by matching skills, experience and competencies with the vacancy. When an Irish roster member is selected by the UN Partner, Irish Aid makes all the necessary travel and preparatory arrangements (visa, travel, insurance and medical) and provides ongoing support throughout the deployment.

The Rapid Response Initiative was externally reviewed in 2011 and was highly praised as a practical example of Ireland’s commitment to delivering on the core humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence. The review found that the Corps was effective in targeting Irish assistance at some of the most serious crisis situations in the world and alleviating suffering in a wide range of contexts - both sudden onset as well as prolonged complex emergencies.

Diplomatic Representation

Questions (74)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

74. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will discuss the re-configuration of the EU affairs and co-ordination division in conjunction with the Department of the Taoiseach, in view of the conclusion of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union; if he will outline the diplomatic postings, that will be made at assistant principal, first secretary, third secretary, administrative officer and higher executive officer levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37154/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

In October 2011, responsibility for the coordination of EU policy formally transferred from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to a newly created EU Affairs and Coordination Division in the Department of the Taoiseach. The new arrangements responded to the evolution of EU institutional structures and practices following the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty, in particular the increased role of the European Council. They also reflected the need to ensure effective coordination and strategic direction of Ireland’s engagement with the EU across the whole of Government. Almost two years on, I am pleased to state that the arrangement is working very well. Systems are in place to ensure effective coordination and communication between the two Departments and our EU Missions on matters of EU policy. Officials from both Departments maintained close and regular contact in the lead up to, and throughout, the successful EU Presidency in the first half of this year and this contact will be maintained into the future.

On the matter of diplomatic postings, the standard duration of assignments at First and Third Secretary and equivalent levels to posts at Missions abroad is about four years, although they can be for longer or shorter periods depending on location and a number of other considerations. Posts at these levels are normally rotated in the months of July and August, in line with the Department’s Planned Posting Policy. No decisions regarding postings for next year have yet been made.

Diplomatic Representation

Questions (75)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

75. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the different ranks and grades in his Department and Irelands diplomatic corps; the comparisons that can be made in the ranks between different Government Departments and the Cvil Service; the number of persons in each rank-grade within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37155/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

The information requested by the Deputy is contained in the following table.

Grade	*Full-time equivalent number serving on 31 July 2013	Equivalent civil service grade
Secretary General	1	Secretary General
Second Secretary	2	Second Secretary
Deputy Secretary	3	Deputy Secretary
Assistant Secretary	30	Assistant Secretary
Counsellor	55	Principal Officer
First Secretary	98.9*	Assistant Principal Officer
Third Secretary	94.6*	Administrative Officer

* Full Time Equivalent – this number takes account of officers on work-sharing arrangements.

Diplomatic Representation

Questions (76)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

76. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update and history on diplomatic relations and engagement between Ireland and Morocco; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37157/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Diplomatic relations between Ireland and the Kingdom of Morocco were established in 1975. The Moroccan Embassy in Dublin was headed for some years by a Chargé d’Affaires, but since 2009 Morocco has been represented here at Ambassador level. The Irish Ambassador to Portugal is accredited to Morocco. Ireland also has two Honorary Consuls in Morocco; in Agadir and Casablanca respectively. Agreements with Morocco are mostly negotiated and agreed at EU level, and co-operation is advanced within the framework of the EU-Morocco Association Agreement. As regards bilateral agreements, the ‘Convention between Ireland and Morocco for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income’ entered into force on 10 September 2012. There have been several official bilateral visits between Ireland and Morocco. Recent visits include an Oireachtas delegation, led by Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, Senator Paddy Burke, which visited Morocco from 4-8 November 2012. The delegation met the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Presidents of the House of Representatives and Senate, and the President of the Consultative Royal Council for Sahara Affairs. The Moroccan Minister for Industry, Trade and New Technologies, Mr. Abdelkadir Aamara, visited Ireland to participate in the Africa-Ireland Economic Forum in October 2012.

Earlier, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern made an official visit to Morocco in January 2001.

Ireland’s stance on the issue of Western Sahara is a point of difficulty with Morocco, but both Governments have shown their determination that this should not dictate the tenor of our relations. Ireland’s bilateral relations with Morocco are very good. Increasing numbers of Irish people visit Morocco, there are Moroccan citizens working here, trade is growing, and, more generally, Morocco is keen to develop cooperation and relations with the EU. I look forward to the further development of our friendly relations with Morocco.

Passport Services

Questions (77)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

77. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update on the transfer of the passport service to the Department of Justice and Equality which is currently introducing a number of service enhancements as part of the Government’s integrated reform delivery plan; his views that the transferring of the service to an independent executive agency of the Department of Justice and Equality is the correct way forward for the issuing and security of Irish passports; if he has considered ensuring the issuing of passport remains an important function of either his Department or the Department of Justice and Equality without the need to outsource it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37163/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

There are no plans to transfer the Passport Service to the Department of Justice and Equality at this time. The Passport Service continues to work on a number of service enhancements and I would like to see this process completed before further consideration is given to any transfer. There are security implications in the outsourcing of passport processing. Best international practice, as advised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, recommends that, at a minimum, the entitlement checking process be undertaken by a public service agency. In this context, I do not envisage changes to the Passport Service operating arrangements at present. The Passport Service maintains regular contact with the broad Justice sector, including weekly meetings with An Garda Síochána. This is critical in maintaining the high international regard given to the security of the Irish passport issuance processes. I envisage that the close working relationship, already in place, will only be further enhanced over the coming months.

Trade Missions

Questions (78)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

78. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update on his political and trade mission to China that took place in July and August 2013; if he will provide a list of engagements he had on the visit, in view of the importance of a trade and investment focus, attracting investment and growing exports; if he will provide an update on the strategic partnership agreement of Irish-Chinese relations; if he had the opportunity to raise the issue of the need for a direct commercial air route between Ireland and Asia as part of Ireland's national aviation policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37204/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I undertook a political and trade mission to China (Beijing and Shanghai) from 30 July to 3 August 2013, at the invitation of the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi. The purpose of my visit was to strengthen the high-level political engagement necessary to deliver on the Strategic Partnership Agreement between Ireland and China, to support Irish companies doing business in China, to promote Ireland as a tourist destination, and to promote Ireland as the best investment location for Chinese businesses looking to expand in Europe. The Strategic Partnership Agreement between China and Ireland was adopted in March last year during the visit of the Taoiseach to China, and extends to all areas of our bilateral relationship including political, diplomatic, trade, investment, agriculture and food, education and tourism. In the period since it was agreed, there has been impressive progress made in Irish-Chinese relations. Eight Irish Government Ministers have visited China promoting trade and other links. On the Chinese side, there have been visits to Ireland by ten Ministers or other senior figures in the Chinese administration.

Irish trade with China is now worth over €8 billion a year, with a strong trade surplus in Ireland’s favour.

During my visit, I had a number of high-level political engagements, including with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Wang Yi; with a member of the State Council, Chairman Yu Zhengsheng; and with Minister Wang Jia Rui, Minister at the Communist Party International Department. At these meetings, I stressed the potential for increased investment and economic co-operation, and took the opportunity to promote Ireland as an education destination. I also raised the issue of access to the Chinese market for Irish beef. I had the opportunity also to discuss wider political issues, including human rights issues, EU-China relations, and current international developments.

During my visit, I announced that Ireland has secured full market access to China for salmon exports, which represents a sizeable opportunity for Irish salmon exporters, with demand for high-end seafood in China growing substantially each year. This followed intensive negotiations with the Chinese authorities by the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) in conjunction with the Irish Embassy in Beijing.

Further, Dublin Airport Authority signed a twinning agreement during my visit to establish a Sister Airports partnership with Beijing Capital International Airport, which will allow the two companies to co-operate to further commercial and tourism links between the two cities. The agreement aims to enable the two airports to engage in a joint marketing initiative to improve airline services between Dublin and Beijing.

I held a number of engagements pursuing key priorities, including exports, food and agribusiness, education, tourism, targeting of investment and support for Irish companies doing business in China. These included engagements organised by Tourism Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Bord Bia.

I had meetings with a number of Chinese companies interested in investing in Ireland and potential partners for Irish exporters. These included Shanghai Bright, Huawei, Yanhua, the Bank of Communications and ChinaCache. I addressed approximately one hundred Chinese and Irish partner company senior executives at a business event organised by Enterprise Ireland. This allowed me to present Ireland’s key strengths both as an investment destination and as a trading partner. I also witnessed the signing of a number of significant memoranda of understanding, including one between IDA Ireland and the Shanghai Foreign Investment Development Board, which has responsibility for outbound investment.

I attended networking events organised by the Irish Embassy in Beijing and the Consulate General in Shanghai, which provided the opportunity to meet a wide range of official, business and cultural contacts. I addressed a promotional event organised by Tourism Ireland in Shanghai which was attended by over 100 representatives of the Chinese travel industry, including airlines, travel agents, tour operators and media.

While in Shanghai, I addressed the Shanghai Returned Scholars Association, a non-government network of influential senior academics, business people and officials, as well as the graduates of the Ireland-Shanghai Senior Officials Training Programme, which has improved awareness of Ireland and our influence, including on trade/investment-related issues, among key municipal government commissions.

Diplomatic Representation

Questions (79)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

79. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when he expects the United States of America to fill the vacancy of ambassador to Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37236/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Ambassador Daniel M. Rooney completed his Mission as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Ireland on 14 December 2012. Pending the nomination of his successor, the Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the United States of America is acting in the capacity of Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim. The appointment of a new Ambassador is a matter for the sending state to initiate. We have not received any proposal in this regard from the United States of America.

Election Monitoring Missions

Questions (80)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

80. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Ireland was requested, through the EU, OSCE or otherwise to take part in or assist in any form the international election observer monitoring in Zimbabwe as part of its presidential election in July 2013 and August 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37239/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade maintains a roster of observers for election monitoring missions. We aim to ensure that, when requested, Ireland is represented at an appropriate level on international observation missions for elections and constitutional referendums. Irish observers participate primarily in missions organised by the European Union and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), but have also been involved in missions organised by the Council of Europe, the United Nations and the Carter Centre. Election observations missions for the Presidential elections in Zimbabwe in July were limited to Zimbabwean and wider African organisations. Ireland did not receive a request to participate in an election observation mission. The most significant missions undertaken were by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU) and the Zimbabwe Electoral Support Network (ZESN).

In their preliminary assessments, both the SADC and AU observation missions emphasised the peaceful conduct of the elections. Both missions acknowledged weaknesses in the electoral process, particularly in regard to the late publication of the voters’ roll, the large numbers of voters being turned away, and the high number of assisted voters. In their preliminary report, the ZESN cited similar concerns and expressed the view that “the election was seriously compromised by a systematic effort to disenfranchise an estimated million voters”. A statement on 22 August by the EU High Representative, Catherine Ashton, on behalf of the European Union, commended the people of Zimbabwe on the conduct of peaceful elections. The EU welcomed the constructive role played by the SADC, the AU and domestic observers during the electoral process and shared the serious concerns raised in their initial assessments.

On 2 September, the SADC observation mission published its final report, which broadly endorsed the election as “free, peaceful and generally credible”. Ireland and our partners in the European Union are now considering our position on Zimbabwe, most notably in respect of the restrictive measures which were introduced by the EU in the aftermath of the political violence which surrounded the previous election in 2008. In doing so we will continue to consult with regional partners and organisations, particularly SADC and the AU. The EU has underlined the importance and need to continue strengthening reforms in Zimbabwe to ensure that future elections are fully transparent and credible as well as peaceful. Our goal is to support the Zimbabwean people in achieving a more prosperous and democratic Zimbabwe, and to work towards the full normalisation of relations between Zimbabwe and the EU. I look forward to discussing this issue with my EU colleagues at the Foreign Affairs Council in the near future.

Trade Missions

Questions (81)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

81. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will discuss the recent deal to provide full market liberalisation of Irish salmon exports to China, following lengthy negotiations between his Department, the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and Ireland's diplomatic missions with Chinese authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37271/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

During my recent political and trade mission to China (30th July- 3rd August), I announced that Ireland has secured full market access to China for salmon exports. This follows on from intensive negotiations with the Chinese authorities by the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) in conjunction with the Irish Embassy in Beijing. The conclusion of these negotiations represents an important step in the ongoing opening of the Chinese market for Irish seafood. Negotiations will continue with the Chinese authorities with a view to expanding the diversity of Irish seafood available on the Chinese market. With the support of the Irish Embassy in Beijing, the SFPA began discussions in 2009 with the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ), the Ministry responsible for import controls in China, with the objective of facilitating the expansion of trade of Irish seafood into China. These discussions, and the visit of a Director from the AQSIQ to Ireland, resulted in agreement on health certificates, which opened up the Chinese market for live fishery products from Ireland as well as enhancing the basis for trade in other fishery products.

Since, the quantity of Irish fishery products certified for export to China by the SFPA in 2010, 2011 and 2012 was approximately 5,700 tonnes, 1,400 and 4, 400 tonnes respectively. High volume frozen fishery products include Mackerel, Horse Mackerel and Blue Whiting. Emerging markets include both crab and boarfish. According to the CSO, exports of seafood have grown from €5.7m in 2010 to €10m in 2012, which represents a 74% increase.

SFPA’s relationship with Chinese authorities is an important underlying basis to the continued market access for Irish seafood to China. International trade in food involves reciprocated trust in food control systems, and the SFPA works hard to maximise the benefit of the high standards to which Irish seafood companies adhere.

Overseas Development Aid

Questions (82)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

82. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will outline the details of Irish Aid's recent joint review of its work on nutrition in Malawi; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37327/13]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Joe Costello)

Malawi is one of the nine key Partner Countries for the Government’s Development Cooperation Programme, where we have a commitment to long term strategic assistance. Through our Malawi Programme Ireland supported the Department of Nutrition, HIV and AIDS to host the Joint Nutrition review which was held from the 5th-7th of August 2013. This was the first such joint review bringing together the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, Education, Science and Technology, Local Government and Gender all of which are engaged in the national nutrition response. The objective of the review was to assess the performance of the nutrition programme and to identify challenges and resource gaps.

The review noted very significant progress in a number of areas including an increase in the number of school going children benefitting from school meals, the establishment of Nutrition Rehabilitation Units at district level and strengthened coordination structures at community, district and national levels. The importance of addressing nutrition in a multi-sectoral way is being promoted especially through District Nutrition Committees. This is making a real difference in the lives of millions of Malawians.

This review also offered the opportunity for participation of Ireland’s Missions in Sierra Leone and Tanzania in sharing the experiences and progress made in their respective countries, as well as key issues and challenges encountered in addressing nutrition. This technical exchange provided good cross programme learning and will improve planning for future nutrition interventions in Malawi, Tanzania and Sierra Leone.

While good progress has been made through Ireland’s and other donor support, Malawi continues to face significant challenges. 80 per cent of the population depend on subsistence farming and the susceptibility of the country to droughts and flooding means that Malawi faces a continuing struggle to ensure that its people have enough food to survive. The extent of the problem of hunger in Malawi is reflected in its nutrition indicators; more than one in five children under five years old are under-weight; one in 20 suffers from acute severe malnutrition; stunted growth is widespread, particularly in rural areas. Continued investment in efficient and effective nutrition interventions will remain a key component of our support to the people of Malawi.

Ireland’s support to Malawi commenced during the food security crisis in 2002 when assistance was channeled through Irish and international aid agencies. The Embassy in Malawi opened in November 2007. Building on our own experience and analysis of the long term needs of Malawi and in consultation with the Government of Malawi, the current Country Programme was developed and approved in March 2010. The Programme will run to 2014 with a total anticipated budget of €66 million over the five years. The goal of the Country Programme is to ensure households are better nourished, food secure and less vulnerable to poverty.

Human Rights Issues

Questions (83, 102, 103, 104)

Clare Daly

Question:

83. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps he has taken in order to register the opposition of the Irish public to the repression of gay persons in Russia. [37333/13]

Clare Daly

Question:

102. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to raise the issue of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights in Russia and to highlight this abuse of human rights on an international forum. [37592/13]

Joe Higgins

Question:

103. Deputy Joe Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the protests he has lodged with the Russian authorities in view of the recent laws enacted there that criminalise persons who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37653/13]

Finian McGrath

Question:

104. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will challenge the anti-discriminatory laws in Russia affecting the LGBT community; and if he will raise it at EU and UN levels. [37656/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 102 to 104, inclusive, together.

I have been monitoring the situation in the Russian Federation very carefully and share the concerns of the Deputies and indeed of the many citizens who have written to me about the recent Russian legislation.

I am on record in the Dáil and elsewhere confirming Ireland’s firm commitment to combating discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity. Ireland’s position is that consensual, same-sex relationships should not be criminalised and we strongly support measures to ensure that the right to freedom of expression and association can be enjoyed effectively by all.

Therefore, we strongly disagree with the recent Russian legislation and have made our position known to senior officials at the Russian Embassy in Ireland. As I have previously stated in the Dáil, such legislation, while purporting to protect young people, is more likely to result in the further stigmatisation and, indeed, criminalisation of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) young people.

Legislation of this type is already the subject of discussion in international fora. Last year at the OSCE, for example, Ireland and twenty-six other participating States issued a joint statement deploring similar legislation which had been adopted by the St. Petersburg legislature.

I have made LGBTI rights a Human Rights priority. Speaking as EU Presidency earlier this year at the Human Rights Council, I reiterated the EU’s grave concern over incidents of discrimination and violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. I said this issue needs to remain on the agenda of the UN.

The particular matter of legislation is also being addressed within the EU. I fully endorse the statement made by the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, on 20 June in which she expressed concern over the recent Russian legislation including in the context of the ongoing pressure of civil society in Russia. I strongly support her call on Russia to uphold its national and international commitments to non-discrimination, freedom of expression, freedom of association and assembly, in particular in the framework of the Council of Europe, to protect the enjoyment of these rights by all individuals.

Moreover during Ireland’s recent Presidency of the European Union, the EU adopted Guidelines to Promote and Protect the Enjoyment of all Human Rights by LGBTI Persons. The Guidelines state unambiguously that legislative initiatives that criminalise public discussion and/or expression of homosexuality (including the prohibition of “pride marches”) violate the human rights of LGBTI persons.

I have asked officials in my Department to engage actively on this issue and explore what avenues can most effectively be pursued in voicing our concerns, possibly together with our EU partners. Discussions are already underway within the EU on how best to ensure that our concerns are kept firmly on the agenda of the Union’s structured dialogue with Russia. That dialogue includes specific consultations on Human Rights with Russian officials, the next round of which should take place this autumn. Ireland will continue to participate actively in the EU’s preparations for these and other senior-level meetings with Russian representatives.

For my part, I will express Irish concerns at my next meeting with a Russian minister.