Engagements between my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on the forthcoming capital review are at an early stage and therefore it would not be appropriate for me to comment on these negotiations at this time.
My Department’s priorities for 2018 include the ongoing implementation of the passport reform process as its online services are further expanded beyond the online adult passport renewal service launched last year; continued investment in our global property network including the commencement of the development of a new Embassy/Ireland House facility in Tokyo; Embassy projects, ongoing maintenance, security improvements, health and safety improvements, etc; and the maintenance and enhancement of the Department’s ICT global communications network and new ICT system enhancements.
My officials look forward to engaging with officials from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to finalise the capital review as soon as possible.