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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 10 Apr 2003

Vol. 565 No. 2

Written Answers. - Official Engagements.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

14 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will make a statement on his recent official visit to Australia. [10185/03]

Successive Irish Governments have traditionally availed of the period around St. Patrick's Day to capitalise on the good will and unparalleled opportunities generated by the celebrations to promote Ireland around the world.

I had the honour to accompany the President on her official visit to Australia over the St. Patrick's Day period and participated in a full programme of events and meetings associated with the visit. The President and I met many members of the Irish community and friends of Ireland at a number of functions organised by the embassy, consulate and other groups in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra.

In addition, I had meetings with the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Queensland and with Mr. John Dawkins, the former Australian Education Minister. I also met Ms Anna Bligh, the Minister for Education in Queensland. The President and I also visited the Brisbane campus of the Australian Catholic University and met faculty members and students. These meetings provided an opportunity to explore a range of education issues of mutual interest.

Question No. 15 answered with Question No. 12.

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