Michael Creed
Ceist:83 Mr. Creed asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the diplomatic offices and representation Ireland has in Hong Kong; and the services available to the public from these offices. [10347/96]
Written Answers. - Diplomatic Representation in Hong Kong.
There is an Irish Honorary Consul in Hong Kong. ABT and IDA Ireland are also represented there.
The main function of the Consulate is to afford consular protection to Irish citizens, whether visitors or residents. This entails the provision of a broad range of services, including advice and assistance in emergencies such as illness, detention, loss of passport, money or other belongings as well as routine matters such as renewing passports or certifying the authenticity of documents. The Consulate also processes applications for visas and Irish citizenship and deals with miscellaneous inquiries about Ireland.
A second function of the Consulate is, in co-operation with An Bord Tráchtála, IDA Ireland and other Irish Government agencies, to assist in the promotion of trade, investment and economic relations generally between Ireland and Hong Kong. This involves, inter alia, giving information to local business people and putting them in contact with Irish agencies which can be of further help to them.
An Bord Tráchtála and IDA Ireland offices in Hong Kong provide a range of services in connection with the promotion of Irish exports and the attraction of foreign investment to Ireland.