asked the Minister for External Affairs if trade information departments are provided in Irish embassies abroad; and, if not, if he will make arrangements to provide them.

The promotion of Irish exports and foreign earnings generally is a priority function of the Department of External Affairs. The trade section of the Department and all our embassies and consular offices abroad provide trade information and engage in trade promotion as part of their normal duties. Where the volume of work or the prospects warrant it, staff are assigned in the various offices to work exclusively on trade promotion and information.

Would the Minister agree that there is a special trade section in each embassy abroad?

Wherever it is warranted.

The staff are fully experienced in trade relations and promotions?

The staff are trained in their work.

By whom?

By the Department of External Affairs.

I am asking about trade promotions and whether that is part of their work?

It is, yes.