Written Answers Nos. 17-36
17. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will join other European countries that already have well established trade offices in Taiwan and are benefiting substantially from their presence there; and if the Irish office will be reopened immediately. [50201/26]
View answer79. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report any initiatives to increase trade with Taiwan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50030/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 79 together.
It is important to first note that Ireland, along with our EU partners, maintains a consistent One China Policy. This means that we recognise the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government of China, and we do not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. However, this does not preclude the development of economic, trade, cultural, and people-to-people connections with Taiwan.
Indeed, there is a significant amount of economic activity between Ireland and Taiwan. In 2024 – the latest year for which full statistics on goods and services are available from the Central Statistics Office – the total value of trade between Ireland and Taiwan was approximately €5.4 billion. In terms of trade in goods in 2024, Ireland’s exports were valued at €373 million and imports at €2.1 billion. In terms of trade in services in 2024, Ireland’s exports were valued at €2.1 billion and imports valued at €872 million.
In terms of supporting trade and economic links with Taiwan, I note that IDA Ireland, the agency responsible for attracting foreign direct investment, currently manages the Taiwanese market from its Singapore office, and Enterprise Ireland, the agency responsible for enterprise development, manages the market from its office in Hong Kong. I note also that European Commission convenes a regular Trade and Investment Dialogue (TID) to discuss bilateral trade and investment matters with Taiwan on behalf of the EU.
I am also aware that some EU Member States have trade offices in Taipei. I note also that European Union established the European Economic and Trade Office in Taipei in 2003, which works to strengthen economic and trade relations with Taiwan on behalf of all EU Member States. There has also been a Taipei Representative Office in Dublin since 1988.
The opening of new offices is kept under review by the Government, with consideration for a broad range of policy issues. However, it is important to note that the opening of new offices requires substantial resources. As such decisions are evaluated on the basis of a number of factors, including whether existing offices can adequately cover the work.
18. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps that her Department is taking to support Bosnia and Herzegovina's accession application to the EU, including in the context of the "Ireland for EU Enlargement" capacity-building programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50193/26]
View answer53. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps that will be taken to advance Bosnia and Herzegovina's accession application to the EU in the context of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50192/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 53 together.
Ireland strongly supports EU enlargement which is a priority for our EU Presidency.
Ireland was part of the first enlargement of the then European Economic Community in 1973 and we have benefitted enormously from our EU membership over the past fifty-three years. We believe that other European countries deserve the same opportunities, provided that they meet all necessary criteria.
Advancing Enlargement policy has taken on heightened priority for many EU Member States and the European Commission following Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The further expansion of the EU and its values can further protect and strengthen the prosperity, security and democratic development of the European continent.
Bosnia and Herzegovina applied for EU membership in 2016 and was granted EU candidate status in December 2022. In order to advance on its EU accession path, Bosnia and Herzegovina must implement necessary reforms to adopt its negotiating framework, including the Law on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council and the Law on Courts, in line with EU standards. Bosnia and Herzegovina is also expected to appoint a Chief Negotiator to lead the country's accession negotiations.
Ireland strongly encourages Bosnia and Herzegovina to take these steps without further delay, and will continue to advocate for the country to grasp the current momentum on EU Enlargement to further progress reforms. In September 2025, Ireland opened a resident embassy in Sarajevo, a clear demonstration of the importance we place on the European perspective of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Ireland continues to support Bosnia and Herzegovina on their EU accession journey. Last year, my Department, through the EU Enlargement and Fundamental Values Fund, launched the three-year “Ireland for EU Enlargement” capacity-building programme which supports officials from candidate and potential candidate countries engaged in the EU accession process. This year, we welcomed seven officials from Bosnia and Herzegovina to participate in the programme, in addition to officials from all other countries of the Western Balkans, and Moldova and Ukraine.
19. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps Ireland is taking to ensure that the European Union is institutionally and financially prepared for future enlargement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50239/26]
View answerIreland strongly supports EU Enlargement, which is a key priority for our Presidency.
Ireland was part of the first enlargement of the then European Economic Community in 1973 and since then we have benefitted enormously from our EU membership. We believe that other European countries deserve the same opportunities, provided that necessary reforms are implemented.
Advancing Enlargement policy has taken on heightened priority for many EU Member States and the European Commission following Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The further expansion of the EU and its values will protect and strengthen the prosperity, security and democratic development of the European continent.
Ten countries currently hold EU ‘candidate’ status - Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye and Ukraine. In addition Kosovo holds ‘potential candidate’ status.
The 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, the EU’s long-term budget, is currently under negotiation among EU Member States and the Irish EU Presidency will play a key role in bringing forward this work. The current Commission proposal provides for a number of mechanisms to support the EU’s ambition and commitment to enlargement. This includes, through the Global Europe instrument, support for candidate and potential candidate countries on their path to EU accession. Under this instrument, a full toolbox has been proposed which includes technical assistance, policy-based loans and support for investments. Separately, it also provides for a dedicated special instrument, the Ukraine Reserve, aimed to cater for Ukraine’s accession path and reconstruction needs.
Importantly, revision of the current and future MFF will also be provided for in the event of the accession of a new Member State to the Union.
The Commission is also expected to publish pre-enlargement policy reviews later this year. Member States and the Commission have discussed the need for reform of the EU's policies, resources, governance and values to prepare for an enlarged European Union since the Granada informal European Council in October 2023. We have already undertaken many important steps to update our policies and financing to prepare for enlargement. I look forward to receiving the Commission’s reviews when they are published.
21. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if her Department has recognised the countries or regions with the greatest need for Irish citizen consular assistance where no Irish embassy or consulate currently exist; the measures her Department is considering to ensure easier access to consular services in these areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50082/26]
View answerThe Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has a long and proud track record of providing high quality consular assistance to Irish citizens abroad. Ensuring our citizens receive timely and empathetic support from our embassies and consulates worldwide is a priority for me in my role as Minister.
A new consular case management system was deployed in March 2026 for use by our Consular Directorate in Dublin and across our extensive global mission network. This system allows for a greater analysis of consular case trends, both geographically and in terms of case type. This analysis assists my Department to identify the regions with the greatest consular assistance demand.
Our top 10 busiest countries in terms of consular assistance are:
1. Spain
2. Great Britain
3. United States of America
4. Portugal
5. Turkey
6. France
7. Thailand
8. Germany
9. Australia
10. Greece
There are Irish embassies in all of these locations, in many cases supplemented by consulates general.
Since 2018, under Global Ireland 2025, Ireland’s diplomatic footprint has expanded significantly with 27 new diplomatic missions opened. This has allowed my Department to enhance its provision of consular assistance to Irish citizens in these countries and regions.
Ireland’s network of embassies and consulates is complemented by honorary consuls who provide vital support especially in delivering emergency consular assistance and services to our citizens, often in countries or regions where we do not have an embassy or consulate. We currently have 94 honorary consuls in 54 countries. In 2026 to date we have appointed four new honorary consuls, with planning underway to appoint further honorary consuls in several locations worldwide.
22. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for a report on the discussion at the EU General Affairs Council on 16 June 2026 of national and regional partnership plans under the multiannual financial framework (MFF) 2028 to 2034.; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50049/26]
View answerOn 16 June, the General Affairs Council met in Luxembourg, where alongside a broader debate on the 2028 - 2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, Europe Ministers discussed briefly the three key instruments within the MFF. These are: the National and Regional Partnership Plans – the NRPPs; the European Competitiveness Fund; and, the Global Europe Instrument. At this meeting, through a qualified majority vote, the Council approved Partial General Approaches on all three Regulations.
As the central forum for negotiating the MFF, Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, represented Ireland at this meeting.
In summary, Member States expressed their support for the Cyprus Presidency's proposed Partial General Approach on the NRPP, congratulating the Cyprus Presidency for their efforts in bringing Member States to agreement. As part of the discussion, Member States raised a range of technical issues related to implementation, including in the context of the interplay with the Common Agricultural Policy Regulation. A number of Member States raised specific considerations regarding the Eastern Border Region.
Following achievement of a Partial General Approach on the NRPP, there are a number of technical issues which remain for agreement, including outstanding recitals and final provisions. Facilitating agreement on these elements will fall to Ireland's EU Presidency. Should Member States reach agreement, Ireland will be ready and willing to commence inter-institutional negotiations through trilogues. Commencement will be dependent on the European Parliament's readiness.
More broadly, during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU, it is expected that we will play a central role guiding the negotiating of the final stages of the MFF; seeking to reach workable compromises on the remaining and most challenges aspects of the budget. In this regard, I, alongside other responsible Ministers and officials, remain committed to acting as an 'honest broker' and reaching a timely agreement.
Advancing this work during our Presidency will be of central importance to the future of the Union and for all Member States, including Ireland. Reaching a pragmatic and well-balanced 2028 -2034 MFF, in a timely manner, will be an important testament of Ireland's ability to reach consensus and deliver a future EU budget that provides for our citizens, communities and businesses.
23. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for a report on most recent meeting of the EU General Affairs Council. [50265/26]
View answerMinister Byrne attended the final meeting of the General Affairs Council (GAC) of the Cyprus Presidency in Luxembourg on 16 June. He discussed the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034 with the other Member States, which agreed a partial general approach on three key elements: the National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPP), European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) and Global Europe Regulations. Alongside his General Affairs Council counterparts, Minister Byrne, together with his EU counterparts, also engaged in preparations for the June meeting of the European Council, approved European Semester recommendations, considered a progress report on simplification, as well as a state of play update from Hungary on the rule of law in its country.
To conclude the meeting, Minister Byrne presented the priorities of the incoming Presidency Trio (Ireland, Lithuania, Greece) and participated in the traditional Presidency handover ceremony between Cyprus and Ireland.
Minister Byrne also participated in three intergovernmental conferences (IGCs) with Moldova, Montenegro and Ukraine held the evening before the GAC, and engaged with my counterparts from both EU Member States as well as candidate countries and potential candidates on the European Democracy Shield and democratic resilience.
Minister Byrne held several bilateral meetings on the margins of the General Affairs Council, including with the Luxembourgish Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Cristina Gherasimov, Bulgarian Deputy Foreign Minister Ivanka Tasheva, Slovenian State Secretary for European Affairs Tamara Weingerl Požar, Hungarian State Secretary for Public Policy András Bíró-Nagy and European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath.
Minister Byrne will chair the first meeting of the General Affairs Council under the Irish Presidency on 14 July.
24. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the average processing times for passport applications in County Mayo over the past 12 months; the steps being taken to reduce delays during peak periods; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49865/26]
View answerThe Passport Service is meeting high demand for passports and has issued almost half a million passports to date in 2026.
The advertised passport processing times for applications are:
• Online simple adult renewal - 10 working days
• Online child/complex adult renewal - 15 working days
• Online first time, adult or child - 20 working days
• Passport Assist - 6 weeks
Domestic applications, including those from County Mayo, are being processed well within advertised turnaround times. There has been an increase in demand for first time applications from international applicants and the Passport Service has increased resources to meet this level of demand.
The Passport Service continually reviews its internal processes along with levels of demand on a daily basis and offers overtime to staff when necessary to meet demand, avoid delays and prevent backlogs.
My Department engages in comprehensive workforce planning and workload management processes, based on forecasted demand for passports. My Department is implementing this year's staffing plan so that excellent customer service is maintained throughout periods of peak demand.
The Passport Service currently employs a total of 839 staff, which represents 98% of the approved staffing target for this year.
The public offices of the Passport Service in Dublin 2 and in Cork operate a four-day Urgent Appointment service for renewal applicants. The Dublin office also offers a one-day Urgent Appointment service.
In the event of sudden bereavement or serious illness of a family member abroad, an applicant can contact the Passport Office and advise them of the issue. Priority is given to these applications by the Passport Service.
Should assistance be required with an application, Customer Service agents are available by phone and webchat services from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., and can be contacted at +35316711633, or via the WebChat service: www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/contact-us/.
25. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade whether her Department will prioritise the promotion of peace-building and diplomacy during Ireland's EU presidency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50249/26]
View answerThe promotion of peacebuilding and conflict prevention through diplomacy and dialogue is a longstanding priority of Ireland’s foreign policy. It will continue to inform our engagement during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Ireland’s Presidency will be guided by our commitment to the values on which the European Union is founded, including respect for human rights, democracy, the rule of law and the UN Charter. We will continue to support a strong and coherent EU approach to addressing conflict and instability through diplomacy, mediation, peacebuilding. We will shine a light on the drivers of conflict and invest in community resilience in conflict-affected settings.
Ireland will work closely with international, regional and local partners to strengthen peacebuilding, mediation, conflict prevention and conflict analysis, recognising that sustainable peace depends on inclusive dialogue, local ownership and long-term partnership. The experience of peacebuilding on the island of Ireland illustrates the profound importance of dialogue, partnership and sustained international support. The success of the peace process in Northern Ireland, enabled through the commitment of communities and institutions, and supported by the EU and international partners, illustrates the contribution that diplomacy and political leadership can make to building lasting peace.
As a committed supporter of multilateralism and the international legal order, Ireland will work to strengthen the EU’s role as a global actor for peace. At a time of increasing global instability and protracted conflict, Ireland will support EU efforts to advance a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, to promote lasting peace and security in the Middle East, and to strengthen the EU’s engagement in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and mediation across Africa, especially in Sudan.
Ireland will promote inclusive approaches to peace and security through the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas. Our fourth National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security reaffirms our commitment to supporting the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in peace and security processes. Ireland also recognises the important role of young people in preventing conflict, promoting dialogue and sustaining peace.
During the Presidency, my Department will work closely with EU institutions, Member States and civil society to ensure Ireland delivers an effective Presidency that advances the EU’s agreed priorities while reflecting Ireland’s longstanding commitment to peace, multilateralism and international cooperation.
26. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report on the progress made for EU candidate countries, Ukraine, Moldova and Montenegro, with regard to EU accession; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50237/26]
View answerIreland strongly supports EU enlargement, which is a priority for our EU Presidency. Over the next six months, Ireland will aim to advance the candidacies of all candidate and potential candidate countries, provided that necessary reforms are implemented.
Ten countries currently hold either EU ‘candidate’ status (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye and Ukraine) or ‘potential candidate’ status (Kosovo).
Montenegro is the most advanced EU candidate country, with 16 out of 33 technical negotiating chapters currently provisionally closed. Ireland supports Montenegro's goal of closing all remaining negotiating chapters by the end of 2026, but this will primarily depend on the implementation by Montenegro of necessary and challenging reforms in order to close individual chapters. During our Presidency, Ireland will also chair the Ad Hoc Working Party on Drafting Montenegro's Accession Treaty, and we will seek to advance its work as much as possible.
Moldova applied for EU membership in 2022 and opened accession negotiations in 2024. Last year’s Enlargement report, issued by the European Commission, highlighted that Moldova had made the most one-year progress of all the candidates over the reporting period. As confirmed by the European Commission, Moldova is technically ready to open all negotiating clusters.
Ukraine applied for EU membership in 2022 and opened accession negotiations in June 2024. Last year’s Enlargement report highlighted that Ukraine made, in the words of the European Commission, remarkable progress across all negotiating chapters over the reporting period. The European Commission also confirmed that Ukraine is technically ready to open all six negotiating clusters.
An Intergovernmental Conference to open Cluster 1 on Fundamentals with both Ukraine and Moldova took place on 15 June. Ireland will seek to facilitate the opening of all remaining negotiating clusters for Ukraine and Moldova during our Presidency.
Ireland will maintain full support to all candidate and potential candidate countries, and will continue to encourage them to implement necessary reforms to advance in their EU accession process.
27. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Russian government has made her aware at any point of the number of politicians who have been blacklisted from entering Russia since the start of the Russo-Ukraine war; if her Department has reciprocated or initiated the blacklisting and/or sanctioning of certain Russian politicians; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49808/26]
View answerIn November 2022, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that the Russian Federation had imposed a travel ban on a number of Irish politicians. The Russian ambassador was summoned to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at that time.
In the face of Russia’s continuing brutal war of aggression against Ukraine, it is essential to maintain pressure on Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations. This includes sanctions agreed at EU level.
The sanctions adopted in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine are the most expansive and hard-hitting sanctions in EU history.
Over 2,700 individuals and entities, including a number of political figures, are now subject to EU restrictive measures. An unprecedented range of sectoral measures against Russia has also been adopted, including measures targeting the trade, finance, energy, technology, defence, media and maritime sectors. Details of the sanctions measures can be found in the Official Journal of the European Union
These measures are agreed on the basis of unanimous decisions of the Council of the European Union.
Ireland has consistently supported robust targeted sanctions in response to Russia's illegal war of aggression in Ukraine. Ireland implements EU sanctions.
Ireland welcomed the adoption of the 20th package of sanctions in April this year and the recent publication of proposals for a 21st package of sanctions. Ireland supports new, ambitious measures to pressure Russia and will work to this end during our Presidency.
28. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps her Department is taking to ensure that the Omnibus packages being developed at EU level will not result in a lowering of standards that will negatively impact Irish businesses and consumers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50250/26]
View answerI would like to thank the Deputy for their question. The Government strongly supports the EU’s competitiveness agenda. Simplification and the Omnibus packages are a key enabler of this. Both the Letta and Draghi reports underlined the need to reduce the regulatory and administrative burden on EU companies, particularly SMEs.
The European Commission put forward twelve separate simplification Omnibus packages in 2025 and 2026. Each package usually contains several legislative proposals relevant to multiple Government Departments. My Department has been coordinating Ireland’s approach across Government to these packages. The Commission estimates that these twelve packages will together lead to a reduction in annual administrative costs of approximately €18 billion a year.
The Government’s position has been consistent. Simplification has to be about better regulation, not deregulation. We need to focus on reducing the regulatory burden, while maintaining high ambition in terms of fundamental rights, environmental protection, human health, and other standards.
Ireland has sought to play a constructive role in negotiations on all packages, recognising the importance of regulation to ensure markets operate efficiently and fairly, and to protect consumers. In this context, it is important that regulations are targeted and proportionate to the policy objective, whether it is to protect consumers and citizens, or to promote competition and innovation.
During our Presidency of the Council of the EU, which began on 1 July, we will steer discussions in Council on the outstanding Omnibus packages and in negotiations with the European Parliament, for a period of six months. We will advocate for a strategic and targeted approach to ensure simplification can deliver on its core objective to reduce the administrative burden for businesses, in particular SMEs, and support the EU’s long-term competitiveness while maintaining established policy goals.
29. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to urgently reform the approach to verifying the Garda witness on passport applications (details supplied) [50103/26]
View answerThe Passport Service is successfully responding to demand, and has issued nearly half a million passports to date this year.
A limited type of passport applications for applicants resident in Ireland are required to be witnessed by a member of An Garda Síochána.
In 2025, the Passport Service launched a new Passport Assist Service to support citizens who do not wish to use Passport Online channel and assist them to make a paper passport application. When developing Passport Assist, the Passport Service engaged with An Garda Síochána and provided training on how to ensure forms are witnessed correctly. Since its launch, the proportion of applications requiring Garda witnessing has decreased from 17% to 13%.
Applications which still require Garda witnessing are adult and child first time applications.
The witnessing of these application forms is an important element of the identity verification process, as it provides initial assurance to the Passport Service that the person in the photograph is the same person presenting to submit the form.
In these cases, the Passport Service calls the relevant station to confirm that the Garda recorded the form in the station’s logbook. Passport Service staff call the Garda station up to three times to verify the witness' signature
Where the Passport Service cannot reach the Garda station after three attempts, the relevant Superintendent’s Office can be contacted to verify the details. If the Passport Service is unable to verify the witness after these steps, a new witnessed form will be requested from the applicant.
The Passport Service is continuously looking at ways to improve the application process for applicants, including the enhancement of digital services, and would welcome the digitisation of witnessed application records maintained by An Garda Síochána.
The Passport Service will continue to maintain a close working relationship with An Garda Síochána.
30. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on the current war on Lebanon; the need to ensure respect for Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity; the need for Israel to respect the terms of the peace deal; and the need to ensure lasting peace in the region.; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50286/26]
View answerThe current war in Lebanon, the latest of many, was triggered by Hezbollah recklessly and gratuitously attacking targets in Israel, after Israel attacked Iran. Once again, they have deliberately dragged Lebanon and its people into war, putting at risk all the progress which Lebanon has made over the last year. I have condemned Hezbollah's attacks on Israel, called on them to cease and to commit to disarm.
However, the Government has also made clear that Israel's military response has been wholly disproportionate and utterly disinterested in the effect upon the people of Lebanon. It is completely contrary to the principles of proportionality and distinction between civil and military targets which are obligatory under international humanitarian law in all conflict situations. It is wholly unacceptable to force the entire civilian population of a large part of Lebanon to flee their homes, and to destroy their villages and prevent their return. I condemn all such attacks on civilian targets on either side of the border.
It was very welcome that the agreement between the United States and Iran to end their war also extended to Lebanon, and it is important that that provision is respected and enacted. Both sides, Israel and Hezbollah, must cease their attacks on each others territory, and Israel must withdraw its forces and respect the sovereignty of Lebanon, just as it demands for itself.
I therefore welcomed the achievement on 26 June of a framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, brokered by the United States. I hope this first step can lead to an end to military actions by all sides, enable access for humanitarian assistance, and pave the way for a lasting peace which respects Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The future of Lebanon must be for its people alone to decide.
31. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on the most recent meeting of the Government Trade Forum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50021/26]
View answerThe Government Trade Forum is the primary mechanism by which the Government engages with business and other relevant stakeholders on the latest developments in international trade. The information and real-time feedback received from the Members is extremely valuable.
The Trade Forum is one part of the comprehensive and deliberate approach we have taken as Government to ensure Ireland’s continued economic growth and resilience. This approach also includes the National Development Plan, Budget 2026, and the mutually supportive Action Plans on Market Diversification and Competitiveness and Productivity.
This year I have convened four meetings of the Trade Forum and the agenda and minutes of the latest meeting held earlier this week will be published on Ireland.ie in due course.
On 29th June, I was joined at the Forum by a number of Government colleagues, alongside CEOs of State Agencies and senior representatives from Irish business.
In this meeting, we updated members on the latest developments in international trade and discussed the upcoming Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, including the Government’s Presidency priorities particularly those in the competitiveness agenda.
The Forum then engaged in a productive discussion on the economic aspects of security and defence, particularly the opportunities for Irish business in this space as well as a review of our national economic resilience. I was pleased to be able to update on the scale of investment in our national defence budget which has risen to just under €1.5bn this year and is 35% higher than the 2022 allocation. On the opportunities side, the message from the Government side was clear i.e. we are supportive of Irish business availing of the opportunities in these sectors.
The contributions at the Forum were confirmation of a real recognition of the ongoing importance of cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, research ecosystems, and support for Irish firms. We will continue to work closely with stakeholders to deliver on these and I look forward to convening a meeting of the Trade Forum again in the near future.
32. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the support being provided to the International Fund for Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50031/26]
View answerThe International Fund for Ireland (IFI) was established by the Irish and UK Governments in 1986, and works to promote economic and social progress and to foster dialogue, contact, and reconciliation between Nationalist and Unionist communities in Northern Ireland and the border counties. Over 40 years, the Fund has delivered transformative peace-building outcomes and strengthened community resilience.
The Government committed €4 million to the IFI in 2026. This investment reflects the priority Ireland places on reconciliation, cooperation, and sustaining the gains of the Good Friday Agreement, and complements the Government’s broader Shared Island Initiative. The IFI’s independence enables it to operate in sensitive environments, ensuring engagement with and support to marginalised communities.
The IFI recently launched a new strategy for the period 2026-2030 and an open call for projects is currently underway. The development of this new strategic framework provides an important opportunity to ensure the Fund remains responsive to evolving challenges.
We continue to engage with international partners in respect of support for the IFI, and to advocate for sustained and enhanced support. We welcome the announcement in April by the Ambassador of the United States of America of $4m in funding to the IFI and the commitment this month of NZ$100,000 by the Government of New Zealand. Such international backing allows the Fund to continue its effective role in consolidating peace, promoting reconciliation, and supporting communities across the island.
33. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her proposals to expand the Irish diplomatic footprint in areas with a growing diaspora community. [50267/26]
View answerThe Government is committed to deepening our engagement with the diaspora. Last year, my Department allocated grants totalling almost €16.5 million under the Emigrant Support Programme to diaspora projects worldwide and in April of this year we launched a new National Diaspora Strategy.
Ireland's mission network plays a key role in the Government's engagement with the diaspora. Identifying where there is scope to build stronger links with our growing diaspora is an important consideration when deciding where we open new diplomatic missions.
Since 2018, under Global Ireland 2025, Ireland’s diplomatic footprint has expanded significantly with twenty-seven new diplomatic missions opened. In addition to the new diplomatic missions there has been significant expansion of diplomatic resources in key locations such as Washington D.C., Brussels and London.
In March, the new consulate general in Melbourne opened to serve the growing Irish community in Victoria, deepen bilateral political and economic ties, and support Irish businesses in a thriving economic hub.
The final diplomatic mission to open under Global Ireland 2025 is the consulate general in Málaga. The consul general has taken up duty and the mission is set to begin providing consular services in the coming months. The mission in Málaga will be a significant addition to our diplomatic network in addressing the needs of our citizens, both visiting and resident in southern Spain.
My colleague, Minister of State Richmond launched our third diaspora strategy in April this year. In the development of the new strategy, he met with representatives of Irish communities and organisations around the world to learn about the challenges and opportunities that exist for the Irish abroad. The new Diaspora Strategy will inform the development of the forthcoming Global Ireland 2040 strategy and the whole-of-government regional strategies committed to in the Programme for Government.
Decisions on new mission locations will be taken within the framework of Global Ireland 2040, the successor strategy to Global Ireland 2025.
34. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps her Department is taking to improve access to passport services, particularly in cases involving urgent travel or delays reported by constituents; the current processing times and any planned measures to enhance service delivery. [50176/26]
View answerThe Passport Service has issued nearly half a million passports to date this year.
The advertised passport processing times for applications are:
• Online simple adult renewal - 10 working days
• Online child/complex adult renewal - 15 working days
• Online first time, adult or child - 20 working days
• Passport Assist - 6 weeks
The public offices of the Passport Service in Dublin 2 and in Cork operate a four-day Urgent Appointment service for renewal applicants. The Dublin office also offers a one-day Urgent Appointment service for renewal applicants. Further information on the Urgent Appointment service is available at: www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/urgent-appointment/
The Passport Service operates a general policy whereby applications can be expedited in cases of genuine emergency, such as a need for urgent medical treatment overseas or the death of a family member abroad. Such applications are expedited through the Travel Emergency service.
In December 2025, the Passport Service implemented the first phase of the Turas passport processing system, replacing legacy technology with a modern case management and passport processing platform. The introduction of Turas represents the single largest technology transformation undertaken by the Passport Service and has delivered more efficient, secure and resilient processing of passport applications.
On 26 June 2026, the Department launched Ireland’s newly designed passport book and card. The new passport incorporates enhanced security features alongside updated artwork celebrating Ireland’s heritage, culture and biodiversity. This project also comprised the implementation of the complex personalisation production machinery used to print the passports.
The Reform Programme is scheduled to conclude in Q3 2027 with work still ongoing on key projects including a Case Management System to consolidate all customer contacts and integrate with our core system Turas, a new online application platform for passport applications and Foreign Birth Registration services, and the implementation of additional passport integrity systems.
35. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for a report on the discussion on the West Bank at the EU Foreign Affairs Council on 15 June 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50080/26]
View answerI attended the most recent meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council on 15 June 2026 in Luxembourg, which included an exchange of views on the Situation in the Middle East.
As regards the West Bank, Ministers raised Israel’s withholding of tax clearance revenues from the Palestinian Authority (PA), and the upcoming meeting of the Palestinian Donor Group in Brussels on 13 July. There is a strong consensus at EU and international level that Israel must release revenues withheld from the PA. Political and economic security in the West Bank is central to its stability and to the security of the wider region, as well as being an essential component to the viability of the two-State solution.
We also discussed illegal Israeli settlements and extremist settler violence. Following the adoption of sanctions against violent Israeli settlers and leading Hamas figures in May, we discussed further policy options, including trade-related measures and new sanctions.
Together with a wide cross-section of other Member States, I specifically requested that the European Commission act on the issue of EU trade with Israeli settlements, to ensure compliance with international law. The Commission has now undertaken to bring forward a list of options for consideration at the next Foreign Affairs Council on 13 July, including measures aimed at prohibiting trade with Israeli settlements.
Ireland will continue to press for appropriate EU action in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and democratic principles in the occupied Palestinian territory. In addition to our advocacy for an EU ban on trade with Israeli settlements, I have repeatedly called for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, or at a minimum the suspension of the trade elements of the Agreement. Ireland has consistently supported consideration of additional sanctions, including proposals brought forward by the Commission President in September 2025 concerning extremist Israeli ministers, and believes that further measures are required.
In parallel, at a national level, the Government is progressing the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill, 2026, which is currently before the Oireachtas for consideration.
36. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will push for EU wide statute blocking the US sanctions against members of the International Criminal Court; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50252/26]
View answerThe European Union's Blocking Statute (Council Regulation (EC) No 2271/96) is an important tool available to the EU to protect European economic operators from the extra-territorial application of third country laws. The Blocking Statute prohibits EU economic operators from complying with extra-territorial legislation listed in an annex to the Statute, unless they are authorised to do so by the Commission. It also allows EU economic operators to recover damages arising from such legislation from the persons or entities causing them, and nullifies the effect in the EU of any foreign court rulings based on it.
Ireland deeply regrets the imposition of US sanctions against elected officials of the International Criminal Court and those who engage with the Court, including a UN Special Rapporteur. Such measures threaten to corrode the international legal order on which all states – but particularly small states like Ireland – depend. Ireland calls for all coercive measures to be withdrawn and for the Court to be allowed to continue its important work, independently and impartially.
The Government believes that a coordinated EU response is the most effective way to protect the ICC and its officials. Ireland has called on the Commission to commence preparatory work on amending the Blocking Statute so that it can be quickly activated at the most appropriate time, having regard in particular to when its activation will have the greatest impact in defending the Court and ensuring continuity of its activities.
In addition, it's essential to support the ICC in building resilience and encouraging service providers to continue to engage with the Court. Ireland has been actively engaging with fellow EU Member States, the European Commission and service providers to this end.
Ireland will continue to work with the Court, relevant stakeholders and our international partners in support of the ICC and its vital mandate to end impunity.
