Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 November 2020
37. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when it is expected that the new consulate in Manchester will be in operation; if other consulates in the United Kingdom are being considered; the role and function of the various missions in the UK post Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37960/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe new Consulate General of Ireland for the North of England will be established in Manchester in 2021. The opening of this diplomatic Mission will advance Ireland’s interests in the region and illustrates our commitment to the British-Irish relationship – and to the Irish community in Britain and Irish business – following the UK’s departure from the EU. It is also a key component of the Government's Global Ireland 2025 agenda - to double Ireland's global influence and impact by 2025. It is expected that the first Consul General will be in place in the first half of 2021.
The new Consulate will focus on political engagement, diaspora engagement, and economic and trade promotion. It will enhance Ireland’s collaboration with local and regional authorities in a consular area of 15 million people, including Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, Leeds and Newcastle. It will facilitate Team Ireland’s collective work to advance Ireland’s commercial interests, following the establishment of the Enterprise Ireland office in Manchester in 2019. The region has of course deep ties with Ireland based on history and our diaspora. Together with the Tánaiste, I discussed the role of the new Mission, and our ambitions for the relationship between Ireland and the North of England, with the mayors of Greater Manchester and the Liverpool City Region on 16 November.
The Government is committed to strengthening Ireland’s vital relationship with the UK. Investing in our physical presence and engaging in every region is central to this. The reopening of Ireland's Consulate General in Cardiff last year, and the announcement in respect of the new Consulate for the North of England reflect this, as does our ongoing investment in the Embassy in London.
These diplomatic Missions, and the Consulate General in Edinburgh, will support the development of the British-Irish relationship in what will be a new phase post-Brexit. The resourcing of our diplomatic network will be kept under ongoing review, to ensure it is sufficient to protect and advance our interests.
