Vol. 535 No. 5
51 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason Deputy David Andrews represented the Government in Los Angeles for St. Patrick's Day; the dates on which he travelled; the persons who accompanied him; the total cost of the visit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8592/01]
Governments have traditionally availed of the period around St. Patrick's Day to capitalise on the goodwill and unparalleled opportunities generated by the celebrations to promote Ireland around the world. The Government decided that the former Minister for Foreign Affairs and distinguished Member of this House, Deputy David Andrews, would represent it at the St. Patrick's Day related activities in Los Angeles this year. There had been approaches to the Consulate General requesting Government representation from a number of event organisers, and appreciation has been expressed for the former Minister's attendance.
During the visit, the former Minister, Deputy Andrews, represented the Government at a number of high profile events, including a civic reception with the City Council of Los Angeles at City Hall, a reception for key contacts in the business community, the Los Angeles St. Patrick's Day Parade and events hosted by Irish societies including the Irish American Bar Association and the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, where the former Minister availed of the opportunity to address more than 500 guests on developments in the Irish economy and the peace process.
The former Minister travelled to Los Angeles from 14 to 18 March. He was accompanied by his wife and the cost of the visit is £12,218.04.
I have the best of relations with Deputy Andrews but is it not unusual for somebody who is currently a backbencher to be funded to travel abroad to represent the Government for St. Patrick's Day or at any other celebrations?
As a former Minister for Foreign Affairs and a distinguished representative of Ireland abroad on many occasions, the Government felt it was appropriate that Deputy Andrews represented the Government and promoted Ireland in a city of the importance of Los Angeles at a time when there are many opportunities to showcase Ireland. There have been previous occasions when former Ministers were asked by the Government to represent it internationally.
Does the Minister of State agree that if a choice had to be made between having no representation or using former Ministers, the best possible representation of Ireland is probably facilitated by drawing on those available and who have given distinguished service?
Yes, I certainly agree that former Ministers who have specific experience in terms of Foreign Affairs or in other briefs are appropriate representatives of Ireland at such events, including St. Patrick's Day festivities. Every year, more and more events are hosted in foreign cities where there is an Irish diaspora and there is no more fitting a person than the former Minister, Deputy Andrews, to represent the Government on any occasion, including that one.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
