Nora Owen
Ceist:17 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when he will give permission for the opening of an Israeli embassy in Ireland.
Written Answers. - Israeli Embassy.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:41 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the dramatic changes which have occurred in Central Eastern Europe resulting in full diplomatic recognition of the State of Israel and the decision to establish residential embassies, the Irish Government will agree to the wishes of the State of Israel and grant permission for a residential embassy in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 41 together.
As I indicated in my reply to Deputy Barry on the same question on 23 November 1989, the question of the opening by Israel of an embassy in Ireland is a matter for discussion between the two Governments concerned and it would be inappropriate and contrary to international practice to speculate publicly on any such discussions before they have been concluded and an announcement made.