Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 February 2012
65 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding his recent visit to Japan; his plans to visit again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6109/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI paid a visit to Japan from 12 to 13 October 2011 and the main focus of which was on trade promotion. Included in my itinerary were several business events, organised by the Embassy and agencies — Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland. I held a meeting with the Chief Secretary of Japan, Mr. Osamu Fujimura on economic, political and trade matters. I availed of the opportunity to raise the current ban on the export of Irish beef to Japan.
During my visit I met members of the Europe Committee of Keidanren (a representative body for Japanese companies) as well as representatives from key Enterprise Ireland and IDA clients. I briefed on the progress being made towards Ireland's economic recovery and encouraged trade and investment with Ireland.
I also met the Japanese Red Cross Society and was briefed on the impact of the earthquake and tidal wave-tsunami which affected coastal communities in March 2011 and on their continuing efforts towards the reconstruction and rehabilitation of those communities.
During this substantive visit to Japan I conveyed key messages about the progress being made in Ireland's economic recovery to the Japanese Government, business and media. I am confident that this visit will promote trade and investment and advance our efforts to restore Ireland's beef trade.
