Written Answers Nos. 107-127
107. Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Taoiseach if he will provide in tabular form the total exports by industry category in euro for 2011, 2012 and to date in 2013; if he will provide a breakdown between foreign direct investment companies exports and indigenous small and medium enterprises exports in euro terms for 2011, 2012, and to date in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45948/13]
View answerData for total exports of goods and services by industry category/economic sector or by country of ownership of the exporter is not available. However, a breakdown of service exports by sector is available. Data on total exports of goods and services (2011, 2012, Q1/2013 and Q2/2013) is included in Table 1. Annual data on exports of services by economic sector (2008-2012) are included in Table 2.
Table 1: Exports of goods and services for 2011, 2012, Q1/2013 and Q2/2013 (€ millions):
|
- |
2011 |
2012 |
Q1/2013 |
Q2/2013 |
|
Total exports of goods & services |
166,475 |
176,147 |
41,296 |
45,809 |
|
of which: exports of goods |
85,007 |
85,852 |
19,690 |
21,738 |
|
of which: exports of services |
81,468 |
90,295 |
21,606 |
24,071 |
Table 2: Exports of services classified by NACE Rev.2 Economic Sector for 2008 to 2012 (€ millions):
|
Economic sector |
Description |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
|
All sectors |
Total Exports of Goods (for information) |
81,037 |
77,647 |
82,607 |
85,007 |
85,852 |
|
All sectors |
Total Exports of Services |
67,947 |
67,602 |
74,311 |
81,468 |
90,295 |
|
B-E & F |
Service exports - from Industry & Construction Sectors |
14,914 |
14,279 |
13,555 |
14,174 |
14,890 |
|
G-U |
Service exports - from Services Sectors |
53,033 |
53,323 |
60,756 |
67,294 |
75,405 |
|
- |
of which: |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
J |
Information and Communication Sectors |
25,686 |
26,560 |
30,823 |
35,377 |
40,583 |
|
K-L |
Financial, Insurance and Real Estate Sectors |
15,966 |
15,297 |
17,045 |
17,231 |
18,918 |
|
- |
All other service sectors |
11,381 |
11,466 |
12,888 |
14,686 |
15,904 |
108. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Taoiseach his plans for ensuring that the new national risk assessment which is to be published annually will include risks faced by the country in the areas of unemployment, emigration, poverty, income inequality, early school leaving, health inequalities, gender inequality and personal over-indebtedness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46401/13]
View answerOne component of the Government's programme of Dáil reform published in September 2013 was completion of a National Risk Assessment which the Government will publish for debate in the Dáil alongside the Stability Programme and National Reform Programme that are produced as part of EU-wide economic planning; and a National Progress Report, produced independently by the CSO.
It is intended that the National Risk Assessment will set out the risks (both financial and non-financial) which the country faces in the period ahead. It will facilitate an opportunity for members of Oireachtas to discuss and contribute to this Assessment.
It is premature to say what risks will be encompassed within the National Risk Assessment, but in carrying out this exercise the Government will draw on international experience and best practice. I understand that the most well-developed risk assessments involve reference to a broad range of risks, be they economic, environmental or social in nature.
109. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Taoiseach if he will provide in tabular form the number of Bills published by his Department since March 2011 and the number of regulatory impact assessments published by his Department since March 2011. [45625/13]
View answerOne Bill was produced by my Department since March 2011.
The Thirty-second Amendment of the Constitution (Abolition of Seanad Éireann) Bill 2013, was published in June 2013, further to a commitment in the Programme for Government. A regulatory impact analysis (RIA) is normally required for all primary legislation but there are certain exceptions to this rule which are set out in the relevant guidelines. As the Bill concerned involved amending the Constitution for the purpose of abolishing the Seanad rather than significantly impacting on the regulatory environment, an RIA was not completed in keeping with precedents for Bills of this nature.
110. Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Taoiseach the total number of State gifts presented to foreign dignitaries during each of the past ten years; the total value of such gifts; if he will provide an itemised list of the gifts by country of the dignitary being presented with the gift; the nature of the gift and manufacturer; the value of the gift; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45853/13]
View answerThe following schedule details the gifts presented by Taoisigh during the last ten years to foreign dignitaries, including Heads of State or Government, their deputies, and Heads of International Organisations. Gifts are carefully sourced in Ireland, with the emphasis on suitability and value for money.
|
Country and Date |
In bound visit |
Out bound visit |
Recipient |
Gift |
Cost - € |
|
Algeria 09.04.2008 |
X |
President of the Council of Nations |
Dublin a Celebration book in slipcase |
30.00 |
|
|
Austria [Tour of Capitals 2003] |
X |
Chancellor Wolfgang Schussel |
Leather Bound Book Wild Geese |
150.00 |
|
|
Australia 22.05.2006 |
X |
PM John Howard |
Silver Photo frame with harp |
105.15 |
|
|
Bahrain 03.10.2003 |
X |
Sheikh Khalifa |
Waterford Crystal 10” Bowl |
200.00 |
|
|
Bahrain 12.10.2004 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
148.22 |
|
|
Belgium 08.10.2007 |
X |
King of Belgium |
Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
148.21 |
|
|
Bulgaria 12.12.05 |
X |
H.E. Georgi Paranov, President |
Pair Metalcraft Candlesticks |
198.00 |
|
|
Canada 05.07.2005 |
X |
PM Martin |
Waterford Crystal 9” Bowl |
136.00 |
|
|
Canada 16.03.2004 |
X |
PM Martin |
Waterford Crystal John Rocha Platter |
168.00 |
|
|
Canada 16.06.2013 |
X |
PM Harper |
Crystal ‘Gathering’ Rose Bowl. |
112.50 |
|
|
Chile 10.07.2003 |
X |
President Lagos |
Waterford Crystal Lismore Bowl |
200.00 |
|
|
China 11.05.2004 |
X |
PM Wen |
John Rocha Crystal Wine set |
167.16 |
|
|
China 17.01.2005 |
X |
H.E.Hu Jintao |
John Rocha Crystal Wine set |
167.16 |
|
|
X |
H.E.Wen Jiabao |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
148.22 |
||
|
China 19.10.2008 |
X |
Premier Minister Wu Jinato |
Crystal Louise Kennedy Photo Frame |
140.00 |
|
|
China 19.02.2012 |
X |
Vice President H.E. Xi Jinping |
Set [12] Galway Crystal Glasses |
71.90 |
|
|
China 25.03.2012 |
X |
Premier State Council H.E.Wen Jiabao Chairman National Peoples Congress Wu Vice Premier Li Keqiang Vice President H.E. Xi Jinping |
Crystal Fitzgerald 15cm Platter Waterford Crystal Fitzgerald 15cm Platter Crystal Trillium Vase Dublin Crystal Harp Bowl |
43.30 43.30 21.25 100.00 |
|
|
China 30.10.2013 |
X |
Vice Premier of State Council Ma Kai |
Waterford Crystal Engraved Bowl |
120.00 |
|
|
Colombia 23.03 2004 |
X |
Vice President |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland in presentation case |
93.50 |
|
|
Croatia 29.11.2005 |
X |
Croatian President Croatian Prime Minister |
Silver King Sitric Cufflinks |
78.00 78.00 |
|
|
Cyprus 05.11 2003 |
X |
President Yassos Papadopoulos |
Silver Salver |
283.14 |
|
|
Cyprus 30.11.2005 |
X |
President Yassos Papadopoulos |
Waterford Crystal Lismore 9” bowl |
136.00 |
|
|
Czech Republic 10.11.2008 |
X |
PM Spidla |
Silver Danu Cufflinks |
28.34 |
|
|
Czech Republic 10.11.2008 |
X |
President Claus |
Bog Oak Basketball Player in Frame |
200.00 |
|
|
Denmark 10.03.2004 |
X |
Prime Minister of Denmark |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland in presentation case |
93.50 |
|
|
East Timor 18.10.2003 |
X |
President Xana Gusamo |
Waterford Crystal Candleticks |
148.22 |
|
|
East Timor 08.03.2010 |
X |
President Jose Ramos Horta |
Book – Limited Edition |
215.00 |
|
|
Egypt 07.12.2006 |
X |
President Mubarak |
Waterford Crystals Candlesticks |
148.21 |
|
|
Estonia 04.04.2012 Estonia 14.04.2008 |
X |
President of Estonia President of Estonia |
Newbridge Prelude Cufflinks Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
45.00 152.99 |
|
|
EU Day of Welcomes. Irelands EU Presidency 01.05.2004. |
X |
All EU Heads of State and Governments + Commission President and Parliament President participating in Day of Welcomes Ceremony.. |
‘Dublin a Celebration’ in presentation case. Seamus Heaney Poem in binder. Commemorative Boxed Silver Coaster & Disc. |
1,050.00 total 1,070.52 total 9,449.22 total |
|
|
EU/ Russia Summit 21.05.2004 |
X |
President Putin |
Silver Salver |
283.14 |
|
|
EU Comm. Meeting 06.01.2004 |
X |
EU Commissioners EU President Romano Prodi |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland in presentation case. Leather Bound Encyclopaedia of Ireland. |
910.00 total 305.00 |
|
|
EU / Latin America Summit 11.05.2006 |
X |
President Fischer |
Great Houses of Ireland Book |
22.45 |
|
|
EU/US Summit 26.06.2004 |
X |
President George Bush |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland in presentation case. Aran Sweater |
93.50 125.64 |
|
|
EU Parliament 27.11.2003 |
X |
Mr. Pat Cox, President of the EU Parliament. |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland in presentation case. |
95.50 |
|
|
EU Parliament 07.04.2008 |
X |
Mr. Hans Pottering, President EU Parliament |
Silver King Sitric Cufflinks |
92.00 |
|
|
EU Comm. 17.04.2008 |
X |
Mr. Jose Manuel Barosso, President of the EU Commission. |
Silver King Sitric Cufflinks |
92.00 |
|
|
EU Parliament 04/10/2012 |
X |
Mr. Martin Schulz, President of the EU Parliament. |
Galway Crystal Tumblers |
35.95 |
|
|
Finland 23.02.2004 |
X |
PM Matti van Hanen |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland. |
45.50 |
|
|
Finland 05.11/2007 |
X |
Ms. Tarja Halonen, Presidentt |
Waterford Crystal Bethany Candlesticks |
76.50 |
|
|
France 22.03.2004 |
X |
President Chirac |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
327.71 |
|
|
France 24.05.2004 |
X |
P.M. Jean-Pierre Raffarin |
Metalcraft Candlesticks |
198.07 |
|
|
France 03.06.2004 |
X |
President Chirac |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland in presentation case. |
93.50 |
|
|
France 14.07.2008 |
X |
President Sarkozy |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
84.63 |
|
|
France 21.09.2007 |
X |
President Sarkozy |
Silver Cufflink DVD Ireland from the Air |
92.00 36.30 |
|
|
France 01.10.2008 |
X |
President Sarkozy |
Waterford Crystal Flutes |
198.00 |
|
|
France 21.07.2008 |
X |
President Sarkozy |
Bog Oak Sculpture |
415.00 |
|
|
Georgia 11.11.2010 |
X |
PM Nika Gilauni |
Silver Cufflinks and Tie Pin Set |
160.00 |
|
|
Germany 09.04.2004 |
X |
Chancellor Schroeder |
Silver Salver |
374.62 |
|
|
Germany 14.04.2008 |
X |
Chancellor Merkel |
Damask Linen Tablecloth |
240.00 |
|
|
Great Britain 17.05.2011 |
X |
HRM Queen Elizabeth 11 |
Special Edition Sweeney Guide to the Irish Turf 1501-2001 |
200.00 |
|
|
Great Britain 05/03/2003 |
X |
PM Blair |
Music Book & Music CDs |
93.16 |
|
|
Greece 23.05.2013 |
X |
PM Samuras |
Celtic Knot Cufflinks |
55.00 |
|
|
Hungary 10.01.2005 |
X |
Hungarian President |
Metalcraft Candlesticks |
198.07 |
|
|
Hungary 24.11.2005 |
X |
PM Gyurcsany |
Silver Cufflinks |
78.00 |
|
|
Iceland 12.09.2007 |
X |
PM Mr. G. Haarde |
Ogham Cufflinks |
88.80 |
|
|
India 16.01.2006 |
X |
President of India PM India Chief Minister Delhi |
Waterford Crystal Candlesticks Waterford Crystal Vase Silver Cufflinks |
148.21 136.00 78.00 |
|
|
Italy 10.06.2013 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Silver Celtic Knot Cufflinks |
55.00 |
|
|
Japan 11.01.2009 |
X |
PM Aso |
Crystal Louise Kennedy Candlesticks |
180.00 |
|
|
Japan 19.06.2013 |
X |
PM Abe |
Cufflinks -Salmon of Knowledge |
94.50 |
|
|
Japan 07.05.2005 |
X |
Emperor & Empress of Japan |
Crystal Oriental Dragon on Ebony Plinth |
1,972.50 |
|
|
Jordan 01.03.2004 |
X |
King of Jordan |
Waterford Crystal Bowl |
251.08 |
|
|
Kosovo 22.12.2008 |
X |
PM Thaci President Fatmir Srjdiu |
Waterford Crystal Vase & Silver Cufflinks Waterford Crystal Vase & Silver Cufflinks /Tie Pin set |
84.63 125.00 84.63 160.00 |
|
|
Latvia 06.06.2013 |
X |
President Andris Berzins PM Valdis Dombrovskis |
Silver Cufflinks Foxford Woolen Scarf |
55.00 17.05 |
|
|
Lebanon 26.04.2004 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
148.22 |
|
|
Lithuania 08.10.2007 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Waterford Crystal Square Bowl |
134.00 |
|
|
Macedonia 19.11.2009 |
X |
President |
Waterford Crystal Bowl |
21.25 |
|
|
Madmoud Abbas 22.09.2008 |
X |
President |
Silver Cufflinks and Tie Pin Set |
160.00 |
|
|
Malaysia 16.06.2003 |
X |
King |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
251.08 |
|
|
Malaysia 10.10.2004 |
X |
King Prime Minister |
Waterford Crystal Bowl Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
200.16 148.22 |
|
|
Mexico 26.05.2004 |
X |
President Fox |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland in presentation case. |
93.50 |
|
|
Monaco 04.04.2011 |
X |
Prince Albert |
Waterford Crystal Wedding Flutes |
240.00 |
|
|
Newfound-land 16.09.2005 |
X |
Hon. Danny Williams Premier |
Bronze Hurler on Mahogany Plinth |
158.54 |
|
|
Newfound-land 28.02.2007 |
X |
Hon. Danny Williams Premier |
Book on Ancient Ireland |
19.99 |
|
|
Norway 13.02.04 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland |
45.50 |
|
|
Norway 18.09.2006 |
X |
King Harold Queen of Norway |
Golden Age of Irish Art 18ct Gold Cufflinks 18ct Gold Ear Studs |
64.72 281.60 222.80 |
|
|
Palestine 12.02.2004 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
148.22 |
|
|
Papal Visit 20.07.2005 |
X |
Pope Benedict |
Hand painted Batik of St. Benedict gift boxed |
394.70 |
|
|
Poland 29.01.2004 |
X |
H,.E. Mr. Leszek Miller PM |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland. |
45.50 |
|
|
Poland 26.02.2008 |
X |
PM Tusk President Kaczynski |
Waterford Crystal Vase Waterford Crystal Vase |
84.63 84.63 |
|
|
Poland 19.02.2007 |
X |
President |
Silver Picture Frame with Harp |
212.00 |
|
|
Romania 19.11.2003 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Antique Map of Ireland |
500.00 |
|
|
Russia 29.05.2003 |
X |
President Putin |
Waterford Crystal Bowl |
327.71 |
|
|
Saudi Arabia 18.02.2008 |
X |
HRH Prince Faisal |
Waterford Crystal Square Bowl |
134.00 |
|
|
Saudi Arabia 14.01.2007 |
X |
King of Saudi Arabia H.H. Prince Abdullah Crown Prince Sultan Prince Abdu Aziz HRH Prince Salmon Bin Abdul |
Waterford Crystal Lamp Waterford Crystal John Rocha Vase Waterford Crystal Centrepiece Waterford Crystal Candlesticks Waterford Crystal Bowl |
368.18 185.95 185.95 148.21 130.17 |
|
|
Scotland 13.01.2012 |
X |
Scottish First Minister Salmond |
History of Ireland Cufflinks |
102.00 |
|
|
Serbia & Monte- negro 20.06.2005 |
X |
President |
Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
148.21 |
|
|
Slovenia 25.02.2008 |
X |
PM Jansa |
Turned Wood Rimmed Bowl |
99.00 |
|
|
Singapore 12.10.2004 |
X |
President Prime Minister |
Waterford Crystal Centrepiece Waterford Crystal Vase |
148.22 148.22 |
|
|
Slovakia 26.03.2007 |
X |
President Gasparovic |
Silver Picture Frame with Harp |
212.00 |
|
|
Slovakia 13.11.2006 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Dublin of Celebration Book |
30.00 |
|
|
South Africa 09.04.2008 |
X |
Deputy President |
Linen Table Runner Napkin & Tray Cloths Set |
76.04 |
|
|
South Africa 14.01.2008 |
X |
Deputy President Vice President President |
Waterford Crystal Centrepiece Waterford Crystal Centrepiece Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
67.71 67.71 152.99 |
|
|
Sweden 22.01.2004 |
X |
PM Goran Persson |
Silver Paper Knife |
93.22 |
|
|
Switzerland 18.10.2003 |
X |
Confederation President Pascal Couchpin |
Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
148.22 |
|
|
Switzerland 16.02.2004 |
X |
President Joseph Deiss |
Encyclopaedia of Ireland. |
45.50 |
|
|
Tanzania 14.01.2008 |
X |
Prime Minister President |
Linen Damask Tablecloth Newbridge Cutlery |
240.00 218.00 |
|
|
Tanzania 25.02.2009 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Waterford Crystal Bowl |
85.00 |
|
|
Thailand 06.10.2004 |
X |
PM Thaksin Shinawtra |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
104.99 |
|
|
Turkey 17.07.2003 Turkey (continued) |
X |
Prime Minister President |
Waterford Crystal Candlesticks Waterford Crystal Vase |
148.22 148.22 |
|
|
United Arab Emirates 16.01.2007 |
X |
HH Sheikh Khalifa, President UAE & Ruler of Abu Dhabi HH Sheikh Mohammed Prime Minister UAE |
Waterford John Rocha Vase Waterford Crystal Candlesticks |
185.95 152.99 |
|
|
United Nations 31.05.2006 |
X |
General Secretary U.N. Kofi Annan |
Silver King Sitric Cufflinks |
78.00 |
|
|
U.S.A. 24.05.2005 |
X |
Former President, Mr. Bill Clinton |
Special Midleton Rare Whiskey |
135.00 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2003 |
X |
President Bush |
Shamrock Bowl |
247.60 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2004 |
X |
President Bush |
Shamrock Bowl |
352.78 |
|
|
U.S.A. St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2005 |
X |
President Bush Former President, Mr. Bill Clinton |
Shamrock Bowl Silver King Citric Cufflinks |
296.04 78.00 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2006 |
X |
President Bush |
Shamrock Bowl |
365.39 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2007 |
X |
President Bush |
Shamrock Bowl |
701.00 [Master -cutter’s Bowl] |
|
|
U.S.A. St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2008 |
X |
President Bush Retirement gift for President Bush |
Shamrock Bowl Bog Oak |
355.00 197.82 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2009 |
X |
President Obama |
Shamrock Bowl [Ormonde Footed Bowl] |
714.93 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2010 |
X |
President Obama President Obama |
Shamrock Bowl Set of 2 (rare Yeats Plays and Poetry |
391.96 265.00 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2011 |
X |
President Obama President Obama Vice President Joe Biden |
Shamrock Bowl Historical Framed Photo of John F. Kennedy Hand Crafted inscribed Hurley set |
400.00 198.00 50.00 |
|
|
U.S.A. 23.05.2011 |
X |
President Obama |
History of Ireland Cufflinks |
102.00 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2012 |
X |
President Obama Vice President Joe Biden |
Shamrock Bowl Bronze Maquette of James Hoban Irish Coin Cufflinks |
200.00 250.00 40.00 |
|
|
U.S.A St. Patrick’s Day Visit 2013 |
X |
President Obama Vice President Biden |
Shamrock Bowl Crystal Picture Frame |
300.00 26.10 |
|
|
Vietnam 06.10.2004 |
X |
PM Pham Van Khi |
Waterford Crystal Vase |
148.22 |
|
|
Vietnam 10.03.2008 |
X |
President Dung |
Waterford Crystal Square Bowl |
134.00 |
|
|
Vietnam 22.10.2009 |
X |
Prime Minister |
Book – Great Houses of Ireland |
22.45 |
111. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Taoiseach further to Parliamentary Question No. 37 of 15 October 2013, if he will provide details on the nature of the survey to be undertaken by the Central Statistics Office as part of its Household Finance and Consumption Survey referred to in that reply. [45423/13]
View answerThe Household Finance and Consumption Survey (HFCS) is a household survey which is being conducted by the Central Statistics Office as part of a programme of similar surveys in Eurozone countries. The survey covers households usually resident in Ireland and the main topic headings covered in the survey are:
1. Socio-demographic data (age, gender, education achieved, marital status, household composition etc.)
2. Real assets and their financing (mortgages and loans, property, cars, jewellery etc.)
3. Other liabilities/credit constraints (lease payments, credit lines, overdrafts, credit cards etc.)
4. Private businesses and financial assets (business ownership, interests in business etc.)
5. Employment (occupation, job status etc.)
6. Pension and insurance policies
7. Income (employee, self-employed, transfer payments etc.)
8. Intergenerational transfers as gifts
9. Consumption (how much spent on food/beverage in the month etc.)
The main aim of the HFCS is to provide structural information on households’ assets and liabilities, based on a representative sample of households. This will address gaps in knowledge about the economic well-being of households, the distribution and type of wealth (and liabilities) among households and individuals, as well as the factors that affect financial planning by households and individuals.
Work began on the survey in 2012 and the main field work was done between March and September 2013. In total the CSO collected data from approximately 5,250 households across the country. The HFCS data is currently being processed and first results are due to be released in mid-2014.
The total cost of the survey over the period 2012 to 2014 is estimated to be approximately €1,357,000 of which the Central Bank will pay €990,000. The remaining €367,000 is being covered from the CSO Vote.
Under the Statistics Act, 1993 the survey data collected on individuals and households is confidential and may only be used for statistical purposes.
112. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will provide in tabular form the partial year and the full year monetary effect of his Department's Budget 2014 reductions to expenditure. [47084/13]
View answerThe Department's estimate for 2014 is €17.931m, a reduction of 19% on the 2013 estimate.
This reflects a range of savings all of which take full effect in 2014.
113. Deputy John Lyons asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has a dedicated strategy in relation to building bilateral relations with China; if he plans to visit China in the next 12 months; if he has invited the Chinese Premier to Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45660/13]
View answer124. Deputy John Lyons asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the total percentage of Ireland’s overall exports accounted for by exports to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46953/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 113 and 124 together.
Overall exports of goods from Ireland in 2012 amounted to €91.7 billion. Services exports amounted to a further €90.3 billion, for a combined total of €182 billion. The trade balance in Ireland’s favour was some €45.7 billion, including the highest services trade surplus since records began. Total goods exports to China (including its various territories) in 2012 were €2.3 billion, while services exports were €3.1 billion. Goods exports to China were thus 2.5% of total goods exports, with services exports to China 3.5% of total exports of services. Combined goods and services exports to China were €5.4 billion, or 3% of total exports from Ireland. These figures make China Ireland’s 9th biggest export market, and our largest in Asia. China is also a key market for indigenous exports from Ireland. In 2012, these amounted to €346 million, an increase of 19% from 2011. Enterprise Ireland has set a target of €600 million of indigenous exports to China by 2016, with a focus on six priority clusters: Financial Services, Clean technologies, Information & Communication Technologies, Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices & Education. China is also a key market for food and agriculture exports. These amounted to €323 million in 2012, an increase of 93% since 2010.
Ireland’s overall relations with China are based on ongoing assessment by Government of Ireland’s key strategic, political and economic interests. The Government recognises that the rapid development of China, along with other countries in Asia, has significant global implications, while providing many opportunities for Ireland. The Government has intensified Ireland’s bilateral relations with China since the visit of then Vice President Xi Jinping in February 2012. The Taoiseach made a return visit to China in March of last year, during which a Strategic Partnership for Mutually Beneficial Cooperation was agreed between the two countries. This Agreement provides a comprehensive framework for the development of further co-operation across a wide range of areas, including trade, investment, culture, and education. I made an official visit to China in July/August of this year, at the invitation of Foreign Minister Wang Yi. I used the visit to further strengthen relations with a key global actor, as well as supporting Irish companies doing business in China, promoting Ireland as a tourist destination, and promoting Ireland as the best investment location for Chinese businesses looking to expand in Europe.
Last week, the Taoiseach and I met separately with Vice Premier Ma Kai, who visited Ireland at my invitation. We had substantive exchanges on all aspects of the bilateral relationship. Vice Premier Ma indicated a firm wish on the part of China to intensify co-operation across a range of areas including trade, investment, education, food and agriculture, and research and development.
Since the visit of President Xi to Ireland, 8 members of Government in addition to the Taoiseach and myself have visited China, with a similar number of Chinese Ministers visiting Ireland. At present, I do not have plans to return to China (for which an invitation would be required). The Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, is not currently scheduled to visit Ireland.
The Government will continue to seek to develop and expand Ireland’s bilateral relationship with China in a mutually beneficial way.
114. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the recent ruling in the European Court of Human Rights case (details supplied) which ruled that the Spanish Government, through the so-called Parot Doctrine, has kept a large number of Basque political prisoners in detention despite the fact that they should have been released years ago; if his further attention has been drawn to the fact that this is affecting 76 long-term Basque prisoners; and the steps he will take to ensure Spain rectifies its actions and fulfils its legal duties as a party to the European Convention on Human Rights. [45735/13]
View answerI am aware of the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights on 21 October in the case of Inés del Río v Spain regarding eligibility for sentence reduction. The relevant Spanish authorities will assess the full implications of the ECHR judgement and will consider the actions that are required in light of the ruling. In the circumstances, it would not be appropriate for me to become involved in the matter.
115. Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the reason Ireland abstained from the 2010 United Nations General Assembly vote to adopt a declaration on the right to water; if his attention has been drawn to the declaration that states the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation as a human right that is essential for the full enjoyment of life and all human rights; if he will outline in detail the objections Ireland had to this declaration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45747/13]
View answerThe 7th session of United Nations Human Rights Council in March 2008 adopted by consensus a Resolution (7/22) which recognised the existence of human rights obligations relating to access to safe drinking water and sanitation. Ireland actively supported this Resolution and was amongst those United Nations member states which co-sponsored it.
Ireland actively engaged in the negotiations at the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly in July 2010 which led to the adoption of a Resolution on the ‘human right to water and sanitation’ (Resolution 64/292). Ireland supported suggestions put forward by the EU that, in our view, would have both resulted in a more balanced text and allowed the General Assembly to reach consensus on this issue. Unfortunately, on this occasion, many of the EU suggestions were not taken into consideration.
The Bolivian-led resolution bypassed the United Nations Human Rights Council process in Geneva and risked introducing division where consensus should have been sought. Following careful consideration it was decided that Ireland could not support in its entirety the final Bolivian text presented to the General Assembly. On 28 July 2010 the Resolution was adopted following a recorded vote of 122 votes in favour, none against and 41 abstentions. Ireland, along with 17 of our European Union partners, abstained from voting on this Resolution.
Ireland continues to actively engage in discussions within the international community on access to safe drinking water and sanitation, including at the 21st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in September 2012, which adopted a resolution on ‘the human right to safe drinking water and sanitation’. Ireland co-sponsored this Resolution.
Ireland agrees in principle that all persons, wherever located, should have access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities and remains convinced that the only manner in which to achieve real progress on access to safe drinking water and sanitation is to maintain consensus within the international community.
Ireland remains fully committed to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goal of reducing by half, by 2015, the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and sanitation. In 2012, Ireland allocated over €5 million in support to water and sanitation activities to improve availability of services and to address the structural causes of exclusion from access to water and sanitation services.
116. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade further to Parliamentary Question No. 68 of 17 October 2013 in relation to the payment of allowances to embassy and consular staff abroad, the guidelines under which a decision is made whether or not to refund the cost of items purchased by officers under this scheme; if there is an asset register of items purchased under this scheme; if this scheme applies to officers who are on temporary secondment to the Department of Foreign Affairs; and if a mechanism exists for recovering equipment and furniture purchased under this scheme or if the officer may retain these items for private use on conclusion of the officer's posting abroad and re-assignment to a position in here. [45931/13]
View answerAs outlined in the reply to Question No. 68 of 17 October 2013, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade provides financial assistance to officers going on posting abroad towards the cost of representational furniture and equipment. In this context, official representation refers to work-related events, official functions and networking opportunities held in the homes of officers on posting as part of their official duties. The scheme covers a small range of items which are necessary to provide a suitable home environment for the purposes of official representation, with particular regard to the representational areas of an officer’s residence. It is governed by detailed internal guidelines, which I would be happy to make available to the Deputy on request. Access to the scheme may also be granted by the parent Department of officers temporarily seconded to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on a case-by-case basis. The amount provided ranges from €2,000-€4,000 depending on the officer’s grade. It may be paid only in respect of an officer’s first posting. The items purchased may be retained by the officer for use during future postings and details of those items are also kept on file. A total of €64,268 was refunded to officers in 2012.
117. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade further to Parliamentary Question No. 6 of 15 October 2013, if the US military aircraft that recently landed at Shannon Airport with a fixed weapon was a Hercules AC-130W; if he will confirm the type of fixed weapon it had; and if there were any other ammunitions, including depleted uranium munitions, on board. [45933/13]
View answerAs outlined in this House on 15 October 2013, I am aware that one US military aircraft recently landed in Shannon Airport armed with a fixed weapon and therefore did not comply with the normal conditions that apply to foreign military aircraft overflying or landing in Ireland. I am not in a position to provide further information on the aircraft in question.
A longstanding system for dealing with requests for landings by US military aircraft at Shannon is in place and is being fully implemented. The Government views breaches of the conditions attached to permission for such landings with the utmost seriousness and the case in question was raised at the highest possible level with the US Embassy. The Embassy official expressed regret at this isolated incident, explained that it was due to an administrative error and provided assurances that steps had been taken by the US authorities to prevent any recurrence.
118. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the reason the original plaques on the entrance to the Villa Spada have been removed and replaced with new plaques; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46075/13]
View answerFollowing the closure of the Embassy to the Holy See in November 2011, the Embassy to Italy and the residence of the Ambassador to Italy were relocated to the State owned Villa Spada, formerly occupied by the Embassy to the Holy See. The change of plaques represents the change of designation of the building.
119. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will agree to a meeting with representatives from an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46076/13]
View answerIn November 2011, the Government announced its decision to close Ireland’s Embassy to the Holy See. This decision was driven by economic factors deriving from our need to cut public expenditure and focus the modest resources of our diplomatic service on economic recovery.
The closure of the resident embassy to the Holy See has yielded substantial savings as it enabled the significantly larger embassy to Italy, and the residence of the ambassador to Italy, to be relocated to the State-owned Villa Spada, which was formerly occupied by the embassy to the Holy See, thereby saving €445,000 per annum in rent on two properties.
Since then, the organisation to which the Deputy refers has written to me on a number of occasions outlining its opposition to the closure of the Embassy and seeking a meeting to discuss its re-instatement. In response, I have assured the organisation that its views have been noted and have, in turn, set out the Government’s position in relation to the closure of the Embassy. I have advised the organisation that the Embassy to the Holy See will not be re-opened in the immediate term.
I do not believe that it would be helpful, at this point in time, to meet the organisation to discuss the matter.
120. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the name, qualifications and current salary of each political staff member appointed by him. [46088/13]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table below.
|
Name |
Position Held |
Qualifications (where stated) |
Annual Salary |
|
Mark Garrett |
Chief Adviser - Office of the Tánaiste |
Postgraduate Dip in EU Competition Law, Masters in Communications, BA in History & Politics |
€156,380 |
|
Colm O’Reardon |
Economic Adviser – Office of the Tánaiste |
First Class Honours Degree in Economics, M. Phil in Economics, D. Phil in Economics |
€144,550 |
|
Jean O’Mahony |
Special Adviser – Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade |
MSC Econ in International Affairs |
€81,676 |
|
Niamh Sweeney |
Special Adviser – Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade |
BA in European Studies, MA in Journalism, MA in Business & Economic Journalism |
€75,647 |
|
Doreen Foley |
Personal Assistant – Office of the Tánaiste |
_ |
€56,060 |
|
Karen Griffin |
Personal Assistant – Constituency office |
Certificate in Managing Organisations in the Voluntary Sector, BA Hons in Drama and Theatre Studies |
€56,060 |
|
Anne Coleman |
Personal Secretary – Constituency office |
_ |
€45,939 |
121. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his response to the ongoing charging of persons for their membership of political parties banned in the Basque; if he has engaged with Spanish officials on their lack of engagement in a peaceful process of resolution to the conflict instead of increasing its repression on political membership and protest activity by individuals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46168/13]
View answerI have closely followed developments in relation to the Basque Country since the declaration by ETA on 20 October 2011 that the organisation had “decided on the definitive cessation of its armed activity”. The Government continues to support all efforts to achieve a definitive peace in the Basque Country and I hope that further progress can be made based on democratic principles and the rule of law.
122. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will discuss the outcomes of the Foreign Affairs Council meeting that took place in October 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46263/13]
View answerI attended the most recent meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) which took place in Luxembourg on 21 October. As the Deputy will be aware, this was the first formal Council meeting of EU Foreign Ministers since late August. A wide range of issues were discussed 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/139093.pdf.
In her opening remarks, High Representative (HR) Ashton gave Ministers a brief overview of recent developments in Iran (latest round of nuclear talks), the Western Balkans (update on the Serbia-Kosovo dialogue and on the current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) and the Maldives (elections).
The first item for substantive discussion was the Eastern Partnership, where Ministers took stock of preparations for the Summit in Vilnius later this month (28-29 November). This Summit will mark an important step forward in the Union’s relationship with its Eastern neighbours. There was broad support amongst partners for the initialling of Association Agreements with Georgia and Moldova in Vilnius. In addition there was an exchange of views on the progress achieved to date by Ukraine to enable the signing of the Association Agreement at the Summit; this was also the subject of an informal ministerial level breakfast meeting between members of the Council and Ukraine which I attended immediately before the FAC. I joined with my EU counterparts in welcoming the advances made to date by Ukraine in implementing key reforms and underlined the importance of further progress towards achieving the benchmarks.
Under the Southern Neighbourhood agenda item, discussions focused on recent developments in Egypt, Syria and Libya; I will address each point separately.
On Egypt, HR Ashton updated Ministers on her recent visit to the region. The situation remains tense and many partners – myself included – highlighted concerns related to the security situation generally, the repression of the political opposition, the detention of political prisoners and the treatment of religious minorities. During my intervention, I specifically raised Ireland’s concern for the four Irish nationals who remain in detention in Egypt. While appreciating Egyptian security concerns in relation to the Sinai, I also expressed concern about the impact on the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. Conclusions were adopted on a report of the Court of Auditors concerning EU Co-operation with Egypt in the field of governance.
Ministers discussed developments in Libya with a focus on the security situation, related migration issues and the recent horrific drowning of some 500 people off the island of Lampedusa. Partners expressed sorrow for the tragic loss of life and we also conveyed our support for the rescue workers operating in extremely challenging circumstances.
Ministers reviewed developments in relation to Syria with particular reference to the OPCW chemical weapons disarmament process, the prospects for the ‘Geneva II’ talks and the ever-challenging humanitarian situation. While welcoming the encouraging progress made in recent weeks on the disarmament issue, the Council underlined the need to maintain the momentum behind the ‘Geneva II’ process and to prioritise the alleviation of the humanitarian suffering. I took the opportunity to echo these concerns in my intervention, voicing Ireland’s continuing support for Joint Special Representative Brahimi and informing partners of Ireland’s contribution of €200,000 to the OPCW disarmament efforts. The FAC adopted Conclusions which emphasised the need for a political solution to the crisis in Syria and for safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all populations in need of assistance throughout the country. The EU is the largest international donor of assistance to the Syrian people and Ireland, for its part, has contributed a total of €13.8m to date.
Finally, Ministers also discussed recent developments in Myanmar/Burma. HR Ashton briefed us on the progress of the EU Taskforce and the preparations for her visit there this month. Over lunch, the FAC met with Nobel Peace Prize laureate and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Discussions focused on how the EU might best support democratic reforms in Myanmar/Burma. For my part, I emphasised in my remarks, Ireland’s commitment to step up assistance to Myanmar/Burma in the context of our new programme of support, the details of which I hope to finalise in the weeks ahead.
123. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of Irish embassies and diplomatic missions in use; the number of staff assigned to each mission; the costs of operating same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46855/13]
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, trade and cultural promotion; frontline consular and passport services to citizens overseas; engaging with and supporting Irish communities, and managing Ireland’s overseas development programmes in Ireland’s key partner countries.
The figures provided in the table below for our overseas missions include both Vote 28 - Foreign Affairs and Trade and Vote 27 - International Co-operation. The effective implementation of the aid programme necessarily entails additional management and oversight costs which are included in the figures provided. In addition to 25 locally recruited core staff, in the region of 180 locally-employed staff are engaged on the development co-operation side to meet technical requirements in specific programme areas. The numbers of such staff in each mission at any time varies in accordance with programme requirements.
|
Mission |
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Officers posted from HQ |
Locally engaged (including agency) administrative, clerical and other support staff |
Budget Allocation 2013 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
Abu Dhabi |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
428,968 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Abuja |
1 Third Secretary |
5 |
309,070 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
2 Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Higher Executive Officer |
|||
|
Addis Ababa |
1 Junior Professional Intern |
4 |
477,059 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 Assistant Principal Officer |
|||
|
Ankara |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
438,195 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Athens |
1 Higher Executive Officer |
5.3* |
466,534 |
|
Atlanta |
1 First Secretary |
1 |
175,731 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Beijing |
1 Third Secretary |
12 |
931,142 |
|
1 Second Secretary General |
|||
|
3 First Secretary/APO |
|||
|
Berlin |
1 Third Secretary |
6 |
950,225 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
Berne |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
496,260 |
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Boston |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
424,996 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Brasilia |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
569,663 |
|
Bratislava |
1 First Secretary |
2 |
281,327 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
1 Higher Executive Officer |
|||
|
Brussels (Embassy – including PfP representation) |
1 Clerical Officer |
4 |
1,034,224 |
|
2 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
2 Counsellor |
|||
|
11 First Secretary/APO |
|||
|
2 Third Secretary |
|||
|
1 Higher Executive Officer |
|||
|
2 Executive Officer |
|||
|
Brussels (Permanent Representation to the European Union) |
17 Clerical Officer |
6 |
3,669,434 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
Bucharest |
1 First Secretary |
5 |
494,007 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Budapest |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
460,199 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Buenos Aires |
1 Third Secretary |
3.4* |
408,638 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 Assistant Principal Officer |
|||
|
Cairo |
1 Third Secretary |
6 |
433,008 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Canberra |
1 First Secretary |
7.1* |
941,323 |
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Chicago |
1 Third Secretary |
3.4* |
358,286 |
|
1 Second Secretary General |
|||
|
Copenhagen |
1 Third Secretary |
4.4* |
437,810 |
|
1 Principal Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Senior Development Specialist |
|||
|
2 Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Higher Executive Officer |
|||
|
Dar-Es-Salaam |
1 Junior Professional Intern |
3 |
871,975 |
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Edinburgh |
1 Clerical Officer |
1 |
261,803 |
|
1 Development Specialist |
|||
|
Freetown |
1 Third Secretary |
1 |
273,750 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
4 First Secretary |
|||
|
2 Third Secretary |
|||
|
1 Executive Officer |
|||
|
1 Junior Professional Intern |
|||
|
2 Interns |
|||
|
Geneva (Permanent Mission to the United Nations) (Including temporary extra staff relating to Ireland’s membership of the UN Human Rights Council) |
1 Clerical Officer |
3.5* |
1,517,915 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 Senior Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Hanoi |
1 Clerical Officer |
3 |
602,000 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Helsinki |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
534,468 |
|
(Ambassador post currently vacant) |
|||
|
1 Senior Development Specialist |
|||
|
Kampala |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
1,526,980 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
Kuala Lumpur |
1 Third Secretary |
5.5* |
418,108 |
|
1 Principal Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Senior Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Lilongwe |
1 Junior Professional Intern |
1 |
543,420 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Lisbon |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
429,263 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Ljubljana |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
424,662 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
2 Counsellor |
|||
|
3 First Secretary/APO |
|||
|
2 Third Secretary |
|||
|
2 Higher Executive Officer |
|||
|
4 Executive Officer |
|||
|
2 Staff Officer |
|||
|
London (including Passport office) |
8 Clerical Officer |
13.5* |
3,275,415 |
|
1 Principal Officer |
|||
|
1 Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Lusaka |
1 Junior Professional Intern |
3 |
1,103,200 |
|
Luxembourg |
1 First Secretary |
4 |
406,978 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Madrid |
1 Third Secretary |
10 |
1,026,844 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 Senior Development Specialist |
|||
|
2 Development Specialist |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Maputo |
1 Junior Professional Intern |
3 |
996,701 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Maseru |
1 Senior Development Specialist |
2 |
561,510 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Mexico |
1 Third Secretary |
5 |
487,952 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Moscow |
2 Clerical Officer |
9 |
799,665 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
New Delhi |
1 Third Secretary |
6 |
971,196 |
|
1 Counsellor 1 First Secretary |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
New York - Consulate General |
1 Executive Officer |
12 |
1,927,749 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
4 First Secretary |
|||
|
2 Third Secretary |
|||
|
New York (Permanent Mission to the United Nations) |
1 Executive Officer |
6 |
1,936,417 |
|
Nicosia |
1 First Secretary |
3 |
274,940 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Oslo |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
650,895 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Ottawa |
1 Third Secretary |
5 |
647,313 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
3 First Secretary |
|||
|
Paris incl. the Permanent Mission to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development and UNESCO) |
2 Third Secretary |
14 |
1,720,595 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Prague |
1 Higher Executive Officer |
5 |
561,301 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
2 First Secretary |
|||
|
Pretoria |
1 Third Secretary |
8 |
1,000,658 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Ramallah |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
422,301 |
|
Riga |
1 First Secretary |
2 |
191,834 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Riyadh |
1 Third Secretary |
8 |
353,892 |
|
1 Deputy Secretary |
|||
|
Rome |
1 First Secretary |
8.8* |
1,007,897 |
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
San Francisco |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
371,898 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Seoul |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
806,580 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Shanghai |
1 Clerical Officer |
4 |
613,519 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
Singapore |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
891,147 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Sofia |
1 Higher Executive Officer |
4 |
393,879 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Stockholm |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
568,195 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Strasbourg |
1 Intern |
3 |
415,255 |
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Sydney |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
747,491 |
|
Tallinn |
1 First Secretary |
2 |
401,716 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
Tel Aviv |
1 First Secretary |
3.5* |
694,147 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 Assistant Principal |
|||
|
The Hague |
1 Third Secretary |
5 |
772,325 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 First Secretary 1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
Tokyo |
7 |
1,391,689 |
|
|
Valletta |
1 First Secretary |
2 |
337,661 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Vienna (Embassy) |
1 Third Secretary |
5 |
695,595 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
Vienna (Permanent Mission to the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe) |
1 First Secretary |
3 |
464,175 |
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
Vilnius |
1 Third Secretary |
3 |
351,944 |
|
1 Assistant Secretary |
|||
|
1 First Secretary |
|||
|
Warsaw |
1 Third Secretary |
4 |
777,827 |
|
1 Deputy Secretary |
|||
|
1 Counsellor |
|||
|
3 First Secretary |
|||
|
1 Third Secretary |
|||
|
1 Executive Officer |
|||
|
Washington DC |
1 Clerical Officer |
8 |
1,148,202 |
The above table does not include Consulates headed by Honorary Consuls, the staff of which are not employees of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
*Full Time Equivalent – this number takes account of officers on work-sharing arrangements.
125. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has examined the reduction in overseas aid budgets of other troika programme or bailout countries; his views on whether the scale of the Irish overseas aid budget is proportionate to our means in comparison to our EU colleagues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47015/13]
View answerThe Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s overseas aid programme and to its place at the heart of Irish foreign policy. The programme reflects the values of the Irish people and is a concrete expression of our determination to help those less fortunate than ourselves. Our new policy on international development - One World, One Future - maintains the Government’s focus on assisting the poorest countries and communities, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, renews the focus of the programme in terms of our trading and economic interest with the developing world, and reconfirms the Government’s commitment to achieving the UN target of providing 0.7% of GNP for Official Development Assistance (ODA) when economic circumstances permit.
Over the past three years, despite the very difficult economic circumstances facing the country, the unprecedented demands on the exchequer and the imperative to reduce the fiscal imbalance in the public finances, this Government has managed to largely stabilise our ODA budget. This must be seen as a very significant achievement, particularly in light of the challenging budgetary constraints we faced in that period. It represents a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to the international aid programme.
The most recent data published by the OECD Development Assistance Committee relates to aid flows for 2012 and shows that ODA budgets across many donors are under some pressure as Governments have reduced spending in response to the financial crisis. However, the data also clearly shows that Ireland continued to be a generous donor by international standards.
126. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the actions he has taken in response to the alleged surveillance of government and civilian communications in Europe by US authorities; if he has established if any such surveillance took place here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47025/13]
View answer127. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade further to Parliamentary Question No. 24 of 2 October 2013, if he will provide any subsequent information regarding and arising from his response and the Topical Issue raised on 2 July in Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47026/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 126 and 127 together.
Following allegations of US surveillance of European Union institutions earlier this year, the EU has engaged regularly with the US authorities in both Washington and Brussels to seek clarification on the issues raised.
An EU-US High Level Expert Group on data protection has been established, where this and related matters are discussed. The EU is represented on this working group by the European Commission, the Presidency of the Council and the European External Action Service (EEAS), and the work of the group is ongoing. A number of meetings have already taken place in Brussels and in Washington. The next meeting is expected to take place on 6 November in Brussels. Following this work, the Commission and the Presidency are expected to issue a public, factual report which will be followed by an assessment and recommendations before the end of the year.
As regards the allegations of spying on EU delegations, High Representative Catherine Ashton raised EU concerns directly with US Secretary of State John Kerry and National Security Advisor Susan Rice on several occasions. I understand that more contacts at various levels have been established since to further discuss the allegations and obtain clarifications on the surveillance activities undertaken by the US with regard to EU delegations.
At their European Council meeting of 24/25 October last, EU Heads of State and Government issued a statement on the more recent developments concerning possible intelligence issues and the deep concerns that these events have raised among European citizens. They underlined the close relationship between Europe and the United States and the value of that partnership. They expressed their conviction that the partnership must be based on respect and trust, including as regards the work and co-operation of secret services.
For our part, and as I have outlined in a reply to a previous parliamentary question, the Government’s concerns have been conveyed bilaterally in contacts with the US Embassy in Dublin. While the House will appreciate that it is not the practice to comment in detail on surveillance and security issues and that the Minister for Justice and Equality has primary responsibility in this area, we do not have any information that would indicate that surveillance took place here in Ireland. I wish to reiterate that any such surveillance here would be unacceptable to us.
