4217. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to provide a detailed breakdown of all gifts received in his capacity as Minister; the nature of these gifts and potential monetary value; the procedures followed in accepting gifts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58626/26]

I wish to advise the Deputy that it is standard international practice, usually by prior mutual agreement, to exchange small, modestly valued, representative gifts between Ministers and foreign dignitaries during ministerial and other high-level visits to and from Ireland. On occasion, as per international custom, I may also present a gift in order to reciprocate one received from a counterpart. Gifts received are token in nature, of nominal value and are typically retained in my Department.

Under section 15 of the Ethics in Public Office Act (1995), gifts presented to office holders valued in excess of €650 are deemed to be gifts to the State and must be recorded accordingly following valuation through the Office of Public Works. I have not received any such gifts in excess of that value since taking up my appointment. All relevant procedures in relation to the acceptance and recording of gifts are adhered to in accordance with the provisions of the Act.