Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
225. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the reason the Irish Ambassador stationed in London is given the title of the "Ambassador of Ireland to Great Britain", rather than the Ambassador of Ireland to the United Kingdom; and to outline the legal status which underpins the use of this alternative title. [45516/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraOur Ambassador in London is accredited to the United Kingdom, although the title “Ambassador of Ireland to Great Britain” reflects a long-standing historical practice dating from the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the UK.
On 2 December 1999, the Nineteenth Amendment made changes to Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution, on foot of the Good Friday Agreement, which affirms Northern Ireland’s status as part of the United Kingdom and the principle of consent in relation to its constitutional status.
Although both countries officially recognised each other’s names and territories in the Good Friday Agreement, and the Ambassador’s accreditation is to the United Kingdom as a whole, the title has remained the same as a matter of diplomatic practice.
There is no difference in the Ambassador’s functions, responsibilities or accreditation arising from this title. The Embassy in London works closely with partners and stakeholders advancing Ireland’s interests and strengthening the close and multifaceted relationship between Ireland and the United Kingdom.
