asked the Minister for External Affairs whether in the present reallocation of posts in the diplomatic service any consideration has been given to the closing of existing or the opening of new embassies.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Diplomatic Missions.
44.
I would refer the Deputy to the reply which I gave to a similar question by him on the 9th December last and to which I have nothing to add.
I have a very poor memory for what the Minister said on the 9th December. Could he refresh my memory?
The gist of the reply of the 9th December was that our diplomatic representation abroad is being kept constantly under review and that it would not be reasonable to anticipate decisions as to what sort of changes might be made as a result of the review that is taking place.
I can see why I was unable to remember what the Minister said in December, because it does not amount to very much. Is there anything on his file to indicate whether we are considering opening any embassies in eastern Europe in an effort to correct the very bad trade balance we have with some of these countries? The Taoiseach has referred to this idea before now and made it respectable.
As I indicated, the Minister for External Affairs is conducting a complete review of this whole situation and when that review has been completed he will be in a position to indicate to the House precisely what changes, if any, he proposes. Pending the completion of that review it is premature to give any further information.
Are we likely to have it this year?
I would think so.