Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 April 2026
297. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the process by which diplomats are selected and appointed to serve abroad; the criteria used in making such appointments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25393/26]
View answer298. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline the process for selection and appointing ambassadors; whether these appointments are made through a formal competition process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25394/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 297 and 298 together.
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. Irish diplomats, including Ambassadors, acting under the direction of the Minister and government of the day, have played a decisive role in these efforts.
Assignments as Ambassador and to other diplomatic roles abroad are drawn from existing civil servants within the legislative framework for diplomatic relations.
Ambassadors of Ireland 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 ambassadorial nominations, a range of factors are taken into account including political, economic and trade priorities as well as skills and experiences required.
Assignments of officers to other diplomatic positions in missions abroad are managed in accordance with my Department's Planned Postings Policy which was most recently revised in 2023. The Planned Postings Policy sets out the principles and criteria used in the decision making process for the posting of officers abroad.
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. 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.
