I initiated a review of Ireland’s foreign policy and external relations on 8 October 2013. The purpose of the review is to provide an updated statement of Ireland’s foreign policy and to identify a series of recommendations for its conduct, with a view to ensuring that the Government is equipped with the right mix of policies and instruments to promote Ireland’s values and interests abroad. The review will include a broad process of consultation: within my Department; with other Government Departments; with State Agencies; with the Oireachtas, with business organizations; with civil society and with other stakeholders. A public consultation exercise will commence shortly, details of which will be made available on the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. I will discuss the review with the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade on 4 December 2013, when I will make a statement on the matter. Similar meetings are being sought with the Joint Committee on European Union Affairs, and with the Joint Committee on Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. Members of the Oireachtas are also invited to contribute views in writing on any aspect of Ireland’s foreign policy and external relations.
