asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Heads of State or of European Community countries who have paid State visits to Ireland; and if there are any plans to invite the Heads of State who have not, so far, made a visit, to visit Ireland.
13.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - State Visits.
9.
asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the member states of the European Community to which the President of Ireland has made State visits; if he has any plans to make State visits to the countries that he has not, so far, been to; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 9 and 13 together.
Since Ireland's accession to the European Community in 1973, State visits to Ireland have been made by the Heads of State of six Community member countries. These visits were by the following: the Queen of Denmark in 1978; the President of Germany in 1980; the Grand Duke of Luxembourg in 1982; the President of Italy in 1986; the King of Spain in 1986; the President of France in 1988.
The President of Ireland has also made State visits to five Community member countries. These include one by President Childers to Belgium in 1974 and the following by President Hillery to: Germany in 1977 and again in 1984; Luxembourg in 1978; Denmark in 1978; the Netherlands in 1986. In addition, President Ó Dálaigh and President Hillery visited the Institutions of the European Community in 1975 and 1987 respectively.
In accordance with international practice, the announcement of any visit by a Head of State is agreed mutually between the two Governments concerned. Prior to the issue of such an announcement it would be inappropriate for me to comment on any proposed visit by the President abroad or by a foreign Head of State to Ireland.
Will the Taoiseach agree that as many such visits as possible should take place, both ways, that there should be as much contact between Community Heads of State as possible?
I fully agree with the Deputy. Such visits are very valuable and, indeed, in the modern context are necessary. We will be glad to encourage them as much as possible. My colleagues and I avail of any opportunities offered to issue informal invitations and ask other Heads of Government and Heads of State to consider a visit, or even a holiday here.