Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
68. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the percentage of staff based at the Irish embassy and consulates in China who are fluent in speaking and writing in Mandarin Chinese. [12634/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDeveloping and maintaining foreign language proficiency in our Embassies and Consulates abroad is important in building key relationships and enabling officers to integrate more deeply.
A wide range of skills are required to carry out the functions of an Embassy and Consulate General and, to that end, the staffing profile of our Missions include both posted staff and locally-hired staff.
A total of 50 staff, including 19 posted and 31 locally-hired staff, are currently employed by Ireland’s Consulate General in Shanghai and our Embassy to China in Beijing, which includes a Visa Office.
Overall, 62% of the staff members are fluent in written and spoken Mandarin Chinese. A further 6 staff members have intermediate or advanced Mandarin Chinese language skills. Remaining staff are at beginner or basic levels.
Where fluency in Mandarin is necessary for any particular role, this is taken into account in the recruitment and appointment process.
