Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2024
130. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide a schedule of costs incurred by his Department in respect of a visit by An Taoiseach to the formal opening of the consulate general in Miami in 2023, in an itemised manner; if he will also provide a schedule of same in respect of his officials and advisors, in an itemised manner that travelled to the event (details supplied). [4060/24]
View answerA new Consulate General of Ireland was established in Miami in October 2022, gradually scaling up operations and taking over responsibility for the State of Florida on a phased basis from the Consulate General in Atlanta, as well as responsibility for the States of Mississippi and Alabama, and Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
Florida is the third most populous state in the United States, with the fourth largest economy among US states. Bilateral trade with Ireland amounted to circa $5.8 billion in 2022. Florida is a popular tourist destination with Irish visitors, receiving up to seven direct flights weekly in Florida’s high season, sustaining a need for a high level of consular services.
In addition, South Florida is closely linked economically and culturally to Latin America and the Caribbean and is an important bridge between North America and the rest of the hemisphere.
The timing of the Taoiseach’s visit in September 2023 presented an ideal opportunity to elevate the Consulate’s profile and deepen local contacts. During his visit, the Taoiseach held a number of high-level meetings, including a meeting with the Secretary of State of Florida, Cord Byrd. The Taoiseach also addressed a very well-attended gathering of political, economic and cultural contacts, including Irish community members, at the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum, an important repository for Irish culture in Miami. The complimentary use of the venue for the reception was secured by the Consulate General and cultural performances were also arranged without charge.
Costs charged to the Consulate General in Miami arising from the visit are provided in the table below. Travel costs for the Taoiseach and other members of the delegation travelling from Ireland were covered by the Department of the Taoiseach.
|
Description |
Cost (EUR) |
|
Hospitality |
€6,272 |
|
Car hire |
€1,058 |
|
Photographer fees |
€250 |
|
Total |
€7,580 |
