Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
324. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Defence if it is the current policy of her private office/Department to formally invite or notify all local Oireachtas members of constituency events at which Ministers are in attendance in the course of performing their ministerial duties and functions; if she will provide the Department's current policy or protocol on this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30594/26]
View answerThere is no formal, Department-wide policy in place requiring that all local Oireachtas members be notified or invited to every engagement undertaken by Ministers in the course of their official duties.
Ministerial engagements are organised having regard to the nature and purpose of the event, the role of the host organisation, and the associated logistical arrangements. In that context, decisions regarding invitations and notifications are made on a case-by-case basis.
In general, where appropriate, efforts are made to notify relevant public representatives of engagements taking place within their constituencies. This may arise, for example, in the context of significant official visits, announcements or events of a public nature.
It should be noted that, in many instances, invitations to events are issued by host organisations rather than by the Minister’s Office or the Department.
I remain committed to ensuring that engagements are conducted in an inclusive and appropriate manner, having regard to all relevant considerations.
