Irish Communities Abroad

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 January 2022

Wednesday, 26 January 2022

Ceisteanna (91)

John Brady

Ceist:

91. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department holds information on Irish citizens elected to or appointed to national, state, provincial and or regional legislatures around the world not including the island of Ireland or representing Irish constituencies in the European Parliament; if so, his views on whether this information should be published in Iris Oifigiúil as a matter of public record and in recognition of the long-standing commitment of Irish citizens living abroad to democracy and to public service in their countries of residence or birth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3775/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs

Many Irish emigrants and their descendants have been elected or served in public office in countries around the world. My Department, through our Embassies and Consulates, maintains close contacts and connections with many of these individuals, in particular through groups such as the "Friends of Ireland" in the US Congress and state legislatures.

My Department does not hold information in regard to the citizenship status of such individuals. Such details are of a private and personal nature. It is my understanding that, even if such data were to be voluntarily made available by an individual, data protection and safety regulations would not permit this being published in Iris Oifigiúil.