asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government have any plans to establish diplomatic relations with Nicaragua.

It would be inappropriate and contrary to international practice to speculate publicly on the question of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and any other country with which we do not already have diplomatic relations as this would be a matter for discussion between the Irish Government and any other government concerned. The establishment of diplomatic relations with other countries is a matter which is kept under continuous review in the light of our international interests and availability of the necessary resources.

Will the Minister state if there have been any approaches from Nicaragua to establish diplomatic relations with Ireland?

From time to time approaches of an informal nature on matters like this take place. A Dáil question regarding the appointment of an honorary consul to Nicaragua was answered in this House last year. The Deputy may take it that from time to time informal approaches are made between this and other countries — not just the country the subject of this question — concerning the opening of diplomatic relations. Obviously, details of those discussions and approaches must remain confidential because they are of concern just to the countries involved and are not a matter for public discussion at the negotiating stage.