Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2026
98. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will consider broadening the criteria for appointing high level diplomats, including ambassadors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8245/26]
View answerIreland has a successful tradition of a non-political civil service whose mission is based on the principles of integrity, impartiality, effectiveness, equity and accountability.
Assignments as Ambassador abroad and to other senior diplomatic roles are drawn from existing officials and I believe it would be a mistake to change a system that has contributed to Ireland’s very strong international reputation.
Ireland has consistently demonstrated its capacity to exert influence and make a distinctive contribution on pressing issues such as peace and reconciliation on this island, leadership within the European Union and UN multilateral bodies, services for our diaspora and consular care as well as in the delivery of an excellent programme of international development. The women and men of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that are appointed as senior diplomats, including Ambassadors, acting under the direction of the Minister and government of the day, have played a decisive role in these efforts.
Irish Ambassadors to countries abroad are appointed by the President on the advice of the Government following nomination by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. In considering nominations as Ambassador, a range of factors are taken into account including political, economic and trade priorities as well as skills and experiences required.
My Department will continue to work closely with Publicjobs to build diversity in recruitment to ensure that the Department is representative of the people we serve. Generally, positions in my Department are filled following recruitment through Publicjobs or competitions administered by my Department in accordance with the Code of Practice as set out by the Commission for Public Service Appointments. Open recruitment competitions are held to join the diplomatic service at Third Secretary, First Secretary and Counsellor levels which offers opportunities for individuals outside the Department to join the diplomatic service at junior, mid-career and senior levels.
