Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2013
122. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to extend the Irish diplomatic and consular representation in 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44885/13]
View answerIreland's diplomatic network includes 56 Embassies, 7 multilateral missions and 10 Consulates General and other offices. In addition to their country of residence, many Ambassadors are also accredited to additional countries on a concurrent basis which enhances the cost-effectiveness of our external representation. Our missions abroad work very closely with the state agencies in the promotion of exports, tourism and inward investment. They perform also a wide range of functions in support of Ireland's foreign policy interests. These include representing and advancing government policies with other states and in international organisations, in particular the EU and the UN; economic and cultural promotion; frontline consular and passport services to citizens overseas; engaging with and supporting Irish communities and with programme management, particularly in Irish Aid priority countries.
The scale and presence of our diplomatic network is considered by the Government on an ongoing basis. Any decision to adjust the state's external representation in the coming year will have regard to national priorities and available resources.
