Diplomatic Representation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 November 2014

Thursday, 20 November 2014

Questions (109)

Colm Keaveney

Question:

109. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the current address of the chancellery of the Embassy to the Holy See; the current address of the residence of the Irish ambassador to the Holy See; the addresses for both that have been supplied to the protocol office of the Holy See; if he will confirm that the current Irish ambassador to the Holy See’s principal residence is in Rome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44621/14]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I am happy to confirm that the Ambassador took up duty in Rome on the 15 September 2014 and presented credentials to Pope Francis last week. The process of re-establishing a resident Embassy to the Holy See is ongoing. The Ambassador is addressing a variety of logistical and other tasks, including securing accommodation appropriate to the objectives of the Embassy, the staffing level and the available budget. A range of options for a Chancery and Residence are under consideration.