Tuesday, 23 Jan 2024

Written Answers Nos. 94-117

Departmental Data

Ceisteanna (94)

Louise O'Reilly

Ceist:

94. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Taoiseach the churn rate, the business entry and exit rates, for Irish firms for each of the following years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. [2818/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has responsibility for collating information on the number of enterprises which open each year and which close each year as part of its work in developing and maintaining the Central Business Register. The register is developed using data provided by the Companies Registration Office (CRO) and the Revenue Commissioners.

The most recent final data available from the Central Business Register, published as part of the CSO’s annual business demography release (Business Demography 2021 - CSO - Central Statistics Office), is for 2021 for enterprise opening and for 2019 for enterprise cessations (enterprise deaths). The difference between reporting on enterprise openings and cessations is due to the methodological requirement whereby an enterprise is only recorded as having ceased trading where no tax returns have been filed for two successive years. The relevant data are presented in the tables below:

Table 1: Number of Enterprises which opened each year, 2018 to 2021

Year	Number
2018	25,794
2019	26,910
2020	36,577
2021	37,615

Table 2: Number of Enterprises which closed each year, 2018 and 2019

Year	Number
2018	28,971
2019	30,622

In line with the requirements set out in Regulation (EU) 2019/2152 (‘EBS Regulation’) and Regulation (EU) 2020/1197 (‘EBS General Implementing Act’) which govern the collection of business statistics, these data covers all NACE sectors, excluding NACE Sectors O - Public Administration; and S94 - Activities of Membership organisations.

Departmental Data

Ceisteanna (95)

Louise O'Reilly

Ceist:

95. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Taoiseach the self-employment rates among men, women, young people and migrants for each of the years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023; and how this compares with the EU and OECD averages, in tabular form. [2820/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach

The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available.

The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is a household survey which provides quarterly statistics on employment and unemployment and is the official source of labour market estimates in the State. The classification of employment status in LFS results is determined according to ILO (International Labour Organisation) concepts and definitions.

Tables 1-3 below contain figures for numbers of persons self-employed in the State as well as self-employment rates broken down by sex, young persons and citizenship* for Q2 2018-Q2 2023. The self-employment rate has been calculated as the number of self-employed persons as a proportion of all those in employment.

*The LFS does not identify whether a respondent is a migrant. However, the LFS does publish citizenship estimates; these figures are included in Table 3.

The self-employment rate for all persons in Q2 2023 was 12.7% - for males it was 17.9%, for females 6.9%, for young persons 1.2% and for non-Irish citizens 8.6%.

The methodology for estimating persons with a disability has been reviewed with the data currently being processed. Disability data will be available in early March.

Numbers of self employed persons and rate of self-employment by sex, Q2 2018 - Q2 2023

		Q2 2018	Q2 2019	Q2 2020	Q2 2021	Q2 2022	Q2 2023
	Self-employed, 000s	250.1	242.2	229.0	229.3	259.7	248.6
	In employment, 000s	1214.3	1241.4	1175.2	1263.2	1360.2	1386.1
Male	Self-employed rate, %	20.6%	19.5%	19.5%	18.2%	19.1%	17.9%
	Self-employed, 000s	79.9	75.5	79.2	77.2	81.3	86.9
	In employment, 000s	1035.4	1054.8	962.9	1085.9	1194.4	1256.9
Female	Self-employed rate, %	7.7%	7.2%	8.2%	7.1%	6.8%	6.9%
	Self-employed, 000s	330.0	317.7	308.2	306.6	341.0	335.4
	In employment, 000s	2249.7	2296.2	2138.1	2349.1	2554.6	2643.0
Total persons	Self-employed rate, %	14.7%	13.8%	14.4%	13.1%	13.3%	12.7%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland.
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Reference period: q1=Jan-Mar,q2 Apr-Jun,q3=Jul-Sep,q4 Oct-Dec.
Estimates for number of persons, where there are less than 30 persons in a cell, are too small to be considered reliable. These estimates are presented with an asterisk (*) in the relevant tables. Where there are 30-49 persons in a cell, estimates are considered to have a wider margin of error and should be treated with caution. These cells are presented with parentheses []. In the case of rates, these limits apply to the denominator used in generating the rate. In the case of annual changes, both the current year and the preceding year are taken into account when deciding whether the estimate should be suppressed or flagged as having a wider margin of error.

Numbers of self employed persons aged 15-24 and rate of self-employment, Q2 2018 - Q2 2023

		Q2 2018	Q2 2019	Q2 2020	Q2 2021	Q2 2022	Q2 2023
	Self-employed, 000s	*	*	*	*	*	*
	In employment, 000s	242.4	248.2	191.1	249.7	318.0	321.1
Persons aged 15-24	Self-employed rate, %	1.4%	1.3%	2.6%	1.5%	1.3%	1.2%
	Self-employed, 000s	330.0	317.7	308.2	306.6	341.0	335.4
	In employment, 000s	2249.7	2296.2	2138.1	2349.1	2554.6	2643.0
Total persons	Self-employed rate, %	14.7%	13.8%	14.4%	13.1%	13.3%	12.7%

Numbers of self employed persons aged 15-24 and rate of self-employment, Q2 2018 - Q2 2023

		Q2 2018	Q2 2019	Q2 2020	Q2 2021	Q2 2022	Q2 2023
	Self-employed, 000s	*	*	*	*	*	*
	In employment, 000s	242.4	248.2	191.1	249.7	318.0	321.1
Persons aged 15-24	Self-employed rate, %	1.4%	1.3%	2.6%	1.5%	1.3%	1.2%
	Self-employed, 000s	330.0	317.7	308.2	306.6	341.0	335.4
	In employment, 000s	2249.7	2296.2	2138.1	2349.1	2554.6	2643.0
Total persons	Self-employed rate, %	14.7%	13.8%	14.4%	13.1%	13.3%	12.7%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland.
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Reference period: q1=Jan-Mar,q2 Apr-Jun,q3=Jul-Sep,q4 Oct-Dec.
Estimates for number of persons, where there are less than 30 persons in a cell, are too small to be considered reliable. These estimates are presented with an asterisk (*) in the relevant tables. Where there are 30-49 persons in a cell, estimates are considered to have a wider margin of error and should be treated with caution. These cells are presented with parentheses []. In the case of rates, these limits apply to the denominator used in generating the rate. In the case of annual changes, both the current year and the preceding year are taken into account when deciding whether the estimate should be suppressed or flagged as having a wider margin of error.

Numbers of self employed persons of non-Irish citizenship and rate of self-employment, Q2 2018 -

		Q2 2018	Q2 2019	Q2 2020	Q2 2021	Q2 2022	Q2 2023
	Self-employed, 000s	34.0	32.6	28.7	36.6	42.0	45.5
	In employment, 000s	365.1	379.2	350.9	397.3	469.3	526.5
Non-Irish citizens	Self-employed rate, %	9.3%	8.6%	8.2%	9.2%	8.9%	8.6%
	Self-employed, 000s	330.0	317.7	308.2	306.6	341.0	335.4
	In employment, 000s	2249.7	2296.2	2138.1	2349.1	2554.6	2643.0
Total persons	Self-employed rate, %	14.7%	13.8%	14.4%	13.1%	13.3%	12.7%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland.
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Reference period: q1=Jan-Mar,q2 Apr-Jun,q3=Jul-Sep,q4 Oct-Dec.
Estimates for number of persons, where there are less than 30 persons in a cell, are too small to be considered reliable. These estimates are presented with an asterisk (*) in the relevant tables. Where there are 30-49 persons in a cell, estimates are considered to have a wider margin of error and should be treated with caution. These cells are presented with parentheses []. In the case of rates, these limits apply to the denominator used in generating the rate. In the case of annual changes, both the current year and the preceding year are taken into account when deciding whether the estimate should be suppressed or flagged as having a wider margin of error.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Ceisteanna (96)

Ruairí Ó Murchú

Ceist:

96. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Taoiseach when the terms of reference for the inquiry into Covid-19 will be produced. [1840/24]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

A comprehensive evaluation of how the country managed COVID-19 will provide an opportunity to learn lessons from our experiences in dealing with a pandemic. It will include a review of the whole-of-government response to the pandemic and how we might do better and be in a stronger position if another pandemic or other similar type event were to occur. It will include a consideration of the health service response covering hospitals, the community and nursing homes, along with the wider economic and social response.

It is intended to have a public element to hear the lived experiences of all society.

The review should be undertaken by those independent of the national response and with relevant expertise.

A consultation with opposition party leaders has been scheduled.

It is intended to bring the terms of reference to Government shortly.

Cabinet Committees

Ceisteanna (97)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

97. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach when the Cabinet Committee on Brexit and Northern Ireland will meet next. [1812/24]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

The Cabinet Committee on Brexit and Northern Ireland is one of ten Cabinet Committees re-established in January 2023. It last met on 29 November 2023.

The Cabinet Committee is intended to oversee implementation of Programme for Government commitments in the areas of Brexit and Northern Ireland, and ongoing related developments.

Northern Ireland and related matters are also discussed at meetings of the Government.

A date for the next meeting remains under consideration.

Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla

Ceisteanna (98, 99, 100, 101)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

98. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den an Taoisigh cén céatadán de bhuiséad fógraíochta a Roinne do 2023 atá caite go dtí seo i mbliana ar fhógraíocht a dhéanamh i nGaeilge agus an bhféadfadh sé a dheimhniú go mbainfear amach roimh dheireadh na bliana an céatadán 20% a leagtar síos in Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla (Leasú), 2021. [2540/24]

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

99. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den an Taoisigh cén céatadán de bhuiséad fógraíochta 2023 na gcomhlachtaí poiblí a thagann faoi scáth a Roinne atá caite go dtí seo i mbliana ar fhógraíocht i nGaeilge agus an bhféadfadh sé a dheimhniú go mbainfidh na comhlachtaí sin amach roimh dheireadh na bliana seo an céatadán 20% a leagtar sios in Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla (Leasú), 2021. [2541/24]

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

100. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den an Taoisigh cén céatadán de bhuiséad fógraíochta a Roinne do 2023 atá caite go dtí seo i mbliana ar fhógraíocht a dhéanamh sna meáin Ghaeilge agus an bhféadfadh sé a dheimhniú go mbainfear amach roimh dheireadh na bliana an céatadán 5% a leagtar síos in Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla (Leasú), 2021. [2542/24]

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

101. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den an Taoisigh cén céatadán de bhuiséad fógraíochta 2023 na gcomhlachtaí poiblí a thagann faoi scáth a Roinne atá caite go dtí seo i mbliana ar fhógraíocht a dhéanamh sna meáin Ghaeilge agus an bhféadfadh sé a dheimhniú go mbainfidh na comhlachtaí sin amach roimh dheireadh na bliana an céatadán 5% a leagtar sios in Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla (Leasú), 2021. [2543/24]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 98, 99, 100 and 101 together.

Tógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimh. 98 go 101, go huile, le chéile.

Tá Roinn an Taoisigh tiomanta go hiomlán dá dualgais reachtúla faoi Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla (Leasú) 2021 a chomhlíonadh. Oibríonn oifigigh le gníomhaireacht ceannaigh meán na Roinne chun na ceanglais a leanas a chomhlíonadh:

(i) beidh ar a laghad 20% d’aon fhógraíocht a chuireann Roinn an Taoisigh in aon bhliain ar fáil i nGaeilge; agus

(ii) úsáidfear ar a laghad 5% de chaiteachas fógraíochta na Roinne in aon bhliain ar bith chun fógraíocht a chur i nGaeilge trí na meáin Ghaeilge.

Tiomsófar gach faisnéis maidir le comhlíonadh fógraíochta Gaeilge na Roinne le hAcht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla (Leasuithe) 2021 do 2023 le cur faoi bhráid an Choimisinéara Teanga faoin 10 Márta 2024.

Ní raibh aon chaiteachas fógraíochta ag an Oifig Náisiúnta um Fhorbairt Eacnamaíoch agus Shóisialta - arb é an t-aon chomhlacht atá faoi choimirce na Roinne - in 2023.

Question No. 99 answered with Question No. 98.

Question No. 100 answered with Question No. 98.

Question No. 101 answered with Question No. 98.

Official Travel

Ceisteanna (102)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

102. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach if he will provide a schedule of official flights and costs of same taken by him in 2023; if a schedule will be provided of all hotels he stayed in in 2023, including hotel name and cost per night while on official State business; and if the same information will be provided in respect of all accompanying staff and advisors. [2652/24]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

As Taoiseach, I regularly travel to participate in formal and informal meetings of the European Council in Brussels and elsewhere. In keeping with the Government’s Global Ireland 2025 strategy, I also place a high importance on engaging actively with fellow Heads of State and Government, both within the EU and more widely. I also use international visits to promote Ireland’s trade, culture, investment and enterprise interests, as well as to engage with Irish communities and to hear at first hand their experiences and concerns. On my visits I am usually accompanied by a small delegation, comprising senior officials/advisers and private office staff, according to the particular requirements of the programme.

Detailed information on foreign travel including the destination and costs for me and for advisers and officials who travel with me are published on a monthly basis on the website of the Department of the Taoiseach under the heading Foreign Travel Reports and can be found at this link. Details of expenditure for trips is published once invoices are received and processed for payment, including costs associated with air travel and accommodation. Not all invoices for travel in 2023 have been received yet. All necessary expenditure on official travel is in line with the Department's Travel Policy which is based on guidelines laid down by the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform. The Department seeks at all times to ensure value for money in respect of each official trip undertaken, consistent with the requirements of official business.

Details of flights taken on the Ministerial Air Transport Service can be accessed at this link.

Official Engagements

Ceisteanna (103)

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor

Ceist:

103. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when he last spoke with the US National Security Advisor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2353/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Sustained, high-level engagement with the United States administration remains a priority for the Government. This engagement is underpinned by a steady rhythm of high level visits in both directions. Last year, there were over 20 visits to the US by Irish Ministers, in addition to a significant number of visits to Ireland by senior figures in the US administration and in Congress, and of course the visit of President Joe Biden last April.

I travelled to Washington DC for a series of high-level meetings last February, including with senior figures in the Biden Administration and the State Department, as well as with members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. During that visit, I had a positive and productive meeting with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. This was a timely opportunity to discuss developments in Northern Ireland, including the recent appointment of the US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Joe Kennedy. We also had a broad discussion on shared global challenges, including Russia’s ongoing military aggression in Ukraine.

I have had several other recent engagements with US Government representatives. In August, I met the US Secretary of the Navy in Dublin, as well as two Congressional Delegations led by Senator Chris Murphy and Representative Pat Fallon. During the United Nations General Assembly high-level week in September, I had a bilateral meeting with Samantha Power, Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development.

Next month, I will return to Washington DC, where I will meet with senior representatives of President Biden’s Administration and members of Congress. The meetings will be an opportunity to discuss issues of shared importance and concern for Ireland and the United States, including Northern Ireland, the war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East, among other topics.

Passport Services

Ceisteanna (104)

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor

Ceist:

104. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish passport applications that were made via the Irish embassies in Singapore and Malaysia in 2023, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2354/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Passport Online service offers Irish citizens the ability to apply online for their passport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is a user-friendly, efficient service that consistently offers processing times up to 4 times faster than paper-based passport renewal applications. Over 90% of all passport applications are made through Passport Online.

The Passport Service rolled out Passport Online for first time applicants to an additional 175 countries in 2023. This means that Passport Online can now be used by 99.9% of all passport applicants worldwide.

Passport Online for first time applicants resident in Singapore went live on November 7, 2021. Since that date all passport applications from residents in Singapore are processed through Passport Online. Applicants can submit any required supporting documentation through the post directly to the Passport Service and their passport is returned directly to them by post.

Passport Online for first time applicants resident in Malaysia went live on 21 September 2023. Since that date, all passport applications from residents in Malaysia are made through Passport Online. Applicants are requested to submit any required supporting documentation to the Embassy of Ireland in Kuala Lumpur, which forwards the documents to the Passport Service in Dublin. Passports are sent back to the Embassy which then arranges for the passport to be picked up or forwarded to the applicant.

The figures requested by the Deputy are outlined below in tabular form.

Country & Application Type	2023
Singapore (paper applications)	0
Singapore (Passport Online applications)	502
Malaysia (paper applications)	22
Malaysia (Passport Online applications)	91

Passport Services

Ceisteanna (105)

John Brady

Ceist:

105. Deputy John Brady asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to provide an update on the status of a passport application (details supplied) as the applicant’s travel date is imminent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2469/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

With regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, the Passport Service has issued a passport to the applicant.

Departmental Expenditure

Ceisteanna (106)

Alan Kelly

Ceist:

106. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the running costs of the Irish Embassy in Washington DC, Paris and London in the years of 2022 and 2023, in tabular form. [2485/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

The running costs for the Embassies of Ireland in London, Paris and Washington DC for 2022 and 2023 are provided in tabular form below.

Embassy	2022	2023
London	€4.5m	€5.5m
Paris	€2.6m	€2.7m
Washington DC	€1.8m	€2.4m

Passport Services

Ceisteanna (107)

Christopher O'Sullivan

Ceist:

107. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs what steps are being taken to address the consequences of individuals whose communications were lost in the Johannesburg consulate in 1986 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2566/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

With regard to the specific issue raised by the Deputy, the Passport Service has contacted the applicant directly with a view to resolving the matter.

Official Travel

Ceisteanna (108)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

108. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide a schedule of official flights, and costs of same, taken by him in 2023; if a schedule will be provided of all hotels he stayed in in 2023, including hotel name and cost per night while on official State business; and if the same information will be provided in respect of all accompanying staff and advisors. [2644/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

The table below contains a schedule of official trips made by the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs in 2023, including the purpose of the trip, dates and locations. In the time available, it has not been possible to compile full details of flight costs and hotel costs for the Tánaiste and accompanying delegations, but this information will be provided directly to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Purpose of travel	Dates	Destination
"EU50" event and Renew Europe meeting	09/01/2023 - 10/01/2023	Brussels
EU Foreign Affairs Council	22/01/2023 - 23/01/2023	Brussels
Meetings in Northern Ireland	02/02/2023 - 03/02/2023	Belfast
High-level bilateral engagements in Washington DC	07/02/2023 - 10/02/2023	Washington DC
Munich Security Conference and EU Foreign Affairs Council	17/02/2023 - 20/02/2023	Munich and Brussels
52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council	26/02/2023 - 27/02/2023	Geneva
St. Patrick's Day Programme	13/04/2023 - 20/04/2023	New York and Boston
Meetings in Northern Ireland	05/04/2023 - 06/04/2023	Belfast
Good Friday Agreement Anniversary event	17/04/2023 - 19/04/2023	Belfast
EU Foreign Affairs Council	23/04/2023 - 24/04/2023	Luxembourg
EU Informal "Gymnich" meeting	11/05/2023 - 13/05/2023	Stockholm
EU Foreign Affairs Council	21/05/2023 - 23/05/2023	Brussels
Meetings in Northern Ireland	06/06/2023 - 07/06/2023	Belfast
British-Irish Council Summit	15/06/2023 - 16/06/2023	Jersey
British–Irish Intergovernmental Conference	18/06/2023 - 19/06/2023	London
EU Foreign Affairs Council	25/06/2023 - 26/06/2023	Luxembourg
Renew Europe Leaders' Summit	28/06/2023 - 29/06/2023	Brussels
State Visit to South Africa and Mozambique	16/07/2023 - 21/07/2023	South Africa and Mozambique
EU Informal "Gymnich" meeting	29/08/2023 - 02/09/2023	Toledo
Britsh-Irish Association Conference	31/08/2023 - 03/09/2023	Oxford
Visit to Israel, the oPt and Jordan	04/09/2023 - 08/09/2023	Jerusalem, Ramallah and Amman
UN General Assembly High-level Week	16/09/2023 - 20/09/2023	New York
Meeting of EU Foreign Ministers with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine	01/10/2023 - 03/10/2023	Kyiv and Lublin
Ireland-Wales Forum	19/10/2023 - 20/10/2023	Cardiff
EU Foreign Affairs Council	22/10/2023 - 23/10/2023	Luxembourg
State Visit to China	05/11/2023 - 09/11/2023	China
EU Foreign Affairs Council	12/11/2023 - 14/11/2023	Brussels
Visit to Egypt, Israel and the oPt	14/11/2023 - 16/11/2023	Cairo, Jerusalem and Ramallah
8th Regional Forum of the Union for the Mediterranean	26/11/2023 - 27/11/2023	Barcelona
COP28	05/12/2023 - 08/12/2023	UAE
EU Foreign Affairs Council	10/12/2023 - 11/12/2023	Brussels
Meeting with UK Foreign Secretary	13/12/2023	London

Birth Certificates

Ceisteanna (109)

Cian O'Callaghan

Ceist:

109. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will look into a case (details supplied) whereby a person cannot apply for a certificate of freedom to marry abroad due to not having access to their long-form birth certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2660/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Department of Foreign Affairs issues a civil letter of freedom to Irish citizens getting married abroad.

This is not an Irish requirement but is a requirement of the country where an applicant may be getting married. All applicants should check with the relevant authority in the country where they are getting married in order to ascertain whether or not a civil letter of freedom is required.

Applicants are required to submit an online application and fee. They will then need to print the completed form (MP1) along with the relevant declaration form (MP2B) and have it witnessed by a solicitor, commissioner for oaths or notary public. These documents should be posted to the address on the top right corner of the MP1 application along with their original birth certificate and a copy of their current Irish passport.

If the applicant or their fiancé has ever been divorced, then original petition and divorce decree must also be submitted. We do our best to facilitate all of our customers but do request that applications are sent in four months in advance of the date of marriage. Late applications cannot be guaranteed.

A request for a birth certificate is standard practice internationally and, indeed, is required of Irish citizens getting married within the State. In the case of marriage in the Netherlands, our understanding is that a birth certificate is needed if either applicant is not a Dutch citizen.

I understand the individual in question was born in Belgium and would need to engage with the relevant Belgian authority to obtain his birth certificate or original copy.

In relation to Foreign Birth Certificates (FBRs), in the absence of a birth certificate, the Department requests an original copy of the birth certificate of the parent through which they derived citizenship.

My Department's Marriages Abroad Unit can be contacted for guidance at [e-mail]. Full information on the process is available on the Department's website under the 'Consular Services' section of www.ireland.ie.

Birth Certificates

Ceisteanna (110)

Denise Mitchell

Ceist:

110. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs for further information regarding the case of a person (details supplied). [2721/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Department of Foreign Affairs issues a civil letter of freedom to Irish citizens getting married abroad.

This is not an Irish requirement but a requirement of the country where an applicant is getting married. All applicants should check with the relevant authority in the country where they are getting married in order to ascertain whether or not a civil letter of freedom is required.

Applicants for a civil letter of freedom are required to submit an online application and fee to the Marriages Abroad unit in the Department of Foreign Affairs. They will then need to complete and print the relevant application form (MP1) along with the relevant declaration form (MP2B) and have it witnessed by a solicitor, commissioner for oaths or notary public. These documents should be posted to the address on the top right corner of the MP1 application along with their original birth certificate and copy of their current Irish passport. If the applicant or their fiancé has ever been divorced, then original petition and divorce decree must also be submitted. We do our best to facilitate all of our customers but do request that applications are sent in four months in advance of the date of marriage. Late applications cannot be guaranteed.

A request for a birth certificate is standard practice internationally and, indeed, is required of Irish citizens getting married within the State. In the case of marriage in the Netherlands, our understanding is that a birth certificate is needed if either applicant is not a Dutch citizen.

I understand that the individual in question was born in Belgium and would need to engage with the relevant Belgian authority to obtain his birth certificate or original copy.

I also understand that the applicant has not started the application process as yet. My Department's Marriages Abroad Unit can be contacted for guidance or assistance at [e-mail].

Full information on the process is available on the Department's website under the 'Consular Services' section of www.ireland.ie.

Human Rights

Ceisteanna (111)

Chris Andrews

Ceist:

111. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he could ensure that issues around human rights in Western Sahara and the ongoing illegal occupation of Western Sahara by Morocco will be included in EU Priorities in UN Human Rights Fora for 2024. [2759/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Respect for human rights is an integral part of Ireland’s foreign policy and we consistently seek to discuss human rights issues through the most appropriate and effective channels, including at a bilateral and European Union level, and through the United Nations Universal Periodic Review mechanism. Officials from my Department also regularly meet with the Moroccan Ambassador to discuss a wide range of issues, with human rights a core element of those discussions.

The EU Council Conclusions on EU Priorities in UN Human Rights fora are agreed each year following lengthy negotiations between EU Member States in Brussels. Given the breadth of human rights concerns globally, it is not possible to include every single issue of concern within this list. As a result, the document for 2024 will be focused on the main issues on the agenda for the 55th session of the Human Rights Council and other UN fora.

Nationally, Ireland will continue to raise this critical issue in our bilateral relations with Morocco. During Morocco’s latest Universal Periodic Review in 2022, Ireland noted our concern that human rights defenders and journalists continue to be targeted for their work and face intimidation, harassment, death threats, criminalisation and physical and sexual assault, including in and in relation to Western Sahara. Ireland recommended that Morocco take all necessary measures to ensure respect for the human rights of all people in Western Sahara.

Middle East

Ceisteanna (112)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

112. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of reports that a number of Irish citizens are serving in the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), in light of Government statements that Israeli actions in Gaza may amount to war crimes, in light of the proceedings against Israel in the International Court of Justice under the Genocide Convention, in light of Ireland’s obligations as a signatory to the latter to take measures both to prevent and to punish the crime of genocide, including by punishing perpetrators, including private individuals, and in light of domestic legislation such as the Genocide Act 1973; his views on whether these individuals serving in the IDF may be in breach of Irish law; if he intends to publicly advise those eligible to serve in the IDF against doing so; his further views on whether it is appropriate for Irish citizens to serve in foreign militaries, particularly where the documented conduct of these militaries might seriously conflict with international human rights law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2768/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

I refer the Deputy to my replies of 22 November 2023 and 5 December 2023 to questions under reference 51321/23 and 53774/23 respectively.

Diplomatic Representation

Ceisteanna (113)

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

113. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will consider opening an Irish embassy in Algeria in order to enhance the relationship and strengthen the economic, social and cultural ties between the two countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2896/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Ireland and Algeria have enjoyed diplomatic relations since 1 January 1974. Since 2003, Algeria has been accredited to Ireland from our Embassy in Berne, Switzerland. A resident Algerian Embassy opened in Dublin in 2020 and H.E. Mr Mohammed Belaoura presenting credentials to President Higgins on 28 October 2020.

Algeria is an important partner for Ireland. It is our third biggest market for food in Africa, after Nigeria and South Africa. Algeria is an important political actor in the region and in multilateral organisations, including the UN, African Union and Union for the Mediterranean. Algeria is currently non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. The relationship between the EU and Algeria falls under the EU-Algerian Association Agreement, which entered into force in 2005.

There are no imminent plans to open a resident Embassy of Ireland in Algiers. Any decision on the opening of a new embassy is considered by reference to Ireland’s national, political and economic priorities. Against these and other factors, the Government keeps the matter of opening further cases under active review.

Foreign Birth Registration

Ceisteanna (114)

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

114. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of children of Irish citizens that were refused entry in the foreign births register in 2023 as a result of the ABC judgement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2955/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

The entitlement of a person to Irish citizenship is governed by the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 as amended, (“the 1956 Act”). Citizenship by descent is provided for in section 7 of the 1956 Act. Section 7(1) of the 1956 Act provides that where a person was born to an Irish citizen parent, that person is an Irish citizen.

Section 7(3) of the 1956 Act adds an exception to this whereby a person born abroad to an Irish citizen parent, who was also born abroad, in order to be entitled to Irish citizenship through that parent, the details of the person’s birth must be entered on the Foreign Births Register (FBR).

In a recent judgment of the Supreme Court in Ireland, A, B and C v The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade [2023] IESC 10, it was confirmed that section 7(1) of the 1956 Act when it uses the term “parent”, refers to the genetic father of the child and includes the birth mother of that child.

In 2023, there were seven applications for entry of a person’s birth on the Foreign Births Register where the grounds for refusal included consideration of the definition of the term “parent” for the purposes of section 7(1) of the 1956 Act.

Official Engagements

Ceisteanna (115)

Matt Carthy

Ceist:

115. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the visit of Chinese premier Li Qiang to Ireland, including the itinerary of the visit, the engagements Government held with the premier, the issues raised by Government at those engagements and the human rights issues that were raised by the Government; the issues raised by the Chinese delegation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2965/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Premier Li Qiang visited Ireland on 16th and 17th of January, at the request of the Chinese authorities. The visit followed the Premier's engagement at Davos and a bilateral programme in Switzerland.

The Premier paid a courtesy call on President Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin before being welcomed by the Taoiseach at Farmleigh House for a bilateral meeting and a lunch, which was also attended by a number of Cabinet Ministers.

Meetings covered a range of topics including bilateral relations, human rights, EU-China relations, multilateral engagement and regional and international issues, including the situation in Ukraine and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Premier Li expressed interest in growing Ireland-China relations, including in trade, green low-carbon development, and sustainable agriculture. He also availed of his visit to announce the resumption of Irish beef exports to China and to extend a 15 day visa waiver to Irish citizens travelling to China for tourism or business purposes.

In his discussions with Premier Li, the Taoiseach communicated Ireland’s priorities for our relationship with China and recalled the values which underpin our engagement, including the global multilateral system. He welcomed the recent EU-China Summit, and Premier Li's meeting in Davos with President Von Der Leyen and set out the EU, and Ireland's, desire for a balanced, reciprocal trade relationship with China, and a level playing field for Irish and EU businesses. The Taoiseach made clear that derisking is not decoupling.

Both the Taoiseach and President Higgins set out Ireland's long-held concerns around the human rights situation in China. The Taoiseach specifically raised concerns about the treatment of minorities in Tibet and Xinjiang, as well as the National Security Law in Hong Kong and the case of Jimmy Lai. The Taoiseach also raised Russia's war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East. A positive discussion on climate also took place and both the Taoiseach and Premier Li agreed on the need for Ireland and China to work in partnership, at a global level, to face this critical global challenge.

Missing Persons

Ceisteanna (116)

Niamh Smyth

Ceist:

116. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department is aware of a case (details supplied); what is being done by his Department to assist the family in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3057/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

I want to thank the Deputy for raising this difficult case on behalf of the family.

As the Deputy will appreciate, I cannot comment on the details of specific cases, but I do want to assure you that officials in my Department have been in regular contact with the family on this case and continue to provide consular assistance.

The Embassy of Ireland, including the Ambassador, has also engaged extensively with the competent authorities of the jurisdiction in question to seek updates and clarity on the progress of the investigation, to relay the concerns of the family, and to facilitate communication between the family and the investigation team. The Embassy will continue to monitor progress on this case and assist the family.

The competent authorities in Ireland are also in contact with their counterparts in the jurisdiction to assist with the investigation where possible. I welcome this and hope that it will help deliver answers for the family in a timely manner.

Please be assured Deputy, that my Department will continue to provide appropriate consular assistance to the family, who, I know, remain steadfast in their determination to find answers and to bring about closure.

Departmental Data

Ceisteanna (117)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

117. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will clarify whether the transfer of data and/or records from his Department that is transferred to other departments, State bodies and local authorities is in aggregated form or on an individual basis; and the reason the data and/or records are provided. [3082/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

Records containing personal data are transferred on both an individual basis and in aggregated form from my Department to other public authorities depending on the circumstances. The format is decided upon on the basis of the purpose of the data sharing activity and the technical and organisational measures deemed appropriate to ensure the security of the data in accordance with the Department’s obligations under Article 32 of the GDPR.

As stated in reply to a previous question by the Deputy, information is shared where necessary and proportionate in accordance with our official functions, including where required for the purpose of authenticating identity or citizenship. The effective and efficient delivery of passport and consular services for Irish citizens is a central component of the Department's work. Sharing of personal data also occurs, where deemed both necessary and proportionate, for law enforcement purposes with competent authorities as defined under Section 69 of the Data Protection Act 2018.