Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 April 2017
71. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Finance if he travelled abroad as part of the St Patrick's Day celebrations; the locations he travelled to; the duration of the trip; the cost of the trip including travel and accommodation in addition to other expenses incurred; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18895/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI travelled to Malaysia and Singapore as part of the Government's programme of overseas visits for St Patrick's Day. My trip consisted of a three night visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (13-16 March) and a three night visit to Singapore (16 - 19 March). The full cost of the trip is currently being finalised by my Department as final invoices for some aspects of the trip have yet to be received. The approximate costs are as follows:
|
Expense Item |
Total |
|
Flights |
€3,145.60 |
|
Hotels* |
€922.75 |
|
Internal Travel* (**) |
€731.12 |
|
Subsistence |
€546.08 |
|
Total |
€5,345.55 |
|
*Figures are approximate as final invoices have not yet been received |
|
|
** Cost relates to car hire for the delegation |
St. Patrick's Day is a unique opportunity for us to engage with and communicate our ongoing support for Irish citizens and those of Irish descent living overseas.
My visit to Malaysia provided an opportunity to bolster Ireland's bilateral relationship with Malaysia and to engage with business, community and official contacts. Given the local political and business culture in Malaysia, Ministerial visits are essential in securing high-level access to the Government, in raising Ireland's profile and in expanding our network of contacts.
My visit to Singapore presented an excellent opportunity to promote Ireland, to one of the wealthiest States in the world, as an attractive English-speaking location within the euro area for investment and as a source for quality goods and services, whether advanced technology, financial services, education, food or tourism.
