Niall Collins
Question:148. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to open new embassies and consulates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31194/19]
View answerThursday, 11 July 2019
Questions (148)
Written answers
The launch of ‘Global Ireland – Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025’ in June 2018 set out the Government’s ambitions for expanding and deepening our international presence, including through the opening of new Embassies and Consulates.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade plans to open 26 new diplomatic Missions during the lifespan of Global Ireland and will further deepen and strengthen the existing Mission Network.
To date new Embassies have opened in Wellington, Bogotá, Amman, Monrovia and Santiago de Chile, and new Consulates General in Vancouver, Cardiff and Mumbai. 2019 sees the opening of new Consulates General in Los Angeles and Frankfurt. Embassies in Kyiv, Manila and Rabat will follow shortly thereafter.
The locations for any possible new Missions are identified on the basis of where they would have the greatest impact and the greatest potential to deliver in terms of the State’s Foreign Policy interests, as outlined in my Department’s Statement of Strategy. The new offices address key gaps and are designed to support Ireland's People, Prosperity, Values, Place in Europe and Influence internationally.
In considering any further expansion of the Diplomatic Network a range of factors will be taken into account including our national, political, economic and trade priorities, as well as the availability of resources.