Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
268. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the percentage of staff at the Irish Embassy in Beijing and Consul General offices in China that are fluent in speaking and writing in Mandarin. [12060/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraA wide range of skills are required to carry out functions in Ireland's diplomatic missions abroad and, to that end, the staffing profile of our missions include both posted staff and locally-hired staff.
A total of 52 staff, including 18 posted and 34 locally-hired staff, are currently employed by Ireland’s Consulate General in Shanghai and our Embassy to China in Beijing, which includes a Visa Office.
Overall, 65% of the staff members are fluent in written and spoken Mandarin Chinese. A further 2 staff members have intermediate or advanced Mandarin Chinese language skills. Remaining staff are at beginner or basic levels.
Where fluency in Mandarin is necessary for any particular role, this is taken into account in the recruitment and appointment process.
