asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the basic changes, if any, in the administration of his Department or in the larger Irish embassies since he took office.

No changes of a structural nature in the administration of my Department have taken place since the Government took office. Broadly speaking, I am satisfied that the administrative structure of my Department, and of its missions abroad, is geared to the most effective implementation of our foreign policy objectives. Since I took office, the Department have however been engaged in reviewing their operations in a number of areas in order particularly to make their contribution in meeting the Government's objectives as set out in the Programme for National Recovery and also with a view to ensuring the most efficient use of the Department's resources.

Is the Minister aware of the concern being expressed at the attempt to remove key functions from his Department? Will the Minister assure the House that he has not, willingly or unwillingly, relinquished any of his key functions?

There is no question of any functions under my control as Minister for Foreign Affairs being removed, changed or anything of that nature. Any speculation to the contrary is totally without foundation.

Are any radical changes intended or about to be carried out?

No, beyond the improvements that can be implemented. If the Deputy is referring to radical changes such as the removal of functions I can tell him that is not taking place. What will take place are improvements, changes in personnel, redeployment of personnel and an emphasis on certain aspects of activity. They are natural changes in the improvement of the functions of any Department.