Irish Communities Abroad

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 January 2022

Wednesday, 26 January 2022

Questions (92)

John Brady

Question:

92. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if information on Irish citizens elected to or appointed to national, state, provincial and or regional legislatures around the world not including the island of Ireland or representing Irish constituencies in the European Parliament, will be published in Iris Oifigiúil (details supplied); if the information will be made available through his Department's website; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3776/22]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs

Many Irish emigrants and their descendants have been elected or served in public office in countries around the world. My Department, through our Embassies and Consulates, maintain close contacts and connections with many of these individuals, in particular through groups such as the "Friends of Ireland" in the US Congress and state legislatures.

My Department does not hold information in regard to the citizenship status of such individuals. Such details are of a private and personal nature. It is my understanding that, even if such data were to be voluntarily made available by an individual, data protection and safety regulations would not permit this being published in Iris Oifigiúil.