Emmet Stagg
Ceist:20 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether there are any proposals to open any new embassies in 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - New Embassies.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:32 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has any proposals to close any embassies in 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 32 together.
Our network of resident embassies is small and must remain so for the foreseeable future because of our limited financial and personnel resources. Possibilities for its extension are reviewed from time to time in the light of our national and international interests and the availablity of the necessary resources. Announcements are made, at the appropriate time, following such review exercises. It would be wrong, and contrary to international practice, however, to speculate publicly on their outcome. The Government have no plans to close any resident Irish Embassy in the current year.