A chara, – I refer to Mary O’Keefe-Burgher’s letter (June 16th) concerning the position of Irish honorary consul in Jersey.
First, may I express on behalf of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade our deep appreciation to Pamela O’Neill who recently retired from the position. Mrs O’Neill provided extraordinary service to this State and to the Irish community in the Channel Islands. She served with distinction over many years and her knowledge and experience is not easily replicated or replaced.
At a time of growing calls upon our honorary consular network – to promote Ireland, to build economic relationships, and to help Irish nationals who may get into difficulty abroad – it is all the more important that we take the time necessary to find the best people who are willing to take on these responsibilities. We are looking to expand our consular representation to be able to reach out more to business and to Irish communities overseas.
In this regard, the department is undertaking a review of our network of honorary consuls, and an appointment to the position in the Channel Islands is being considered in this context.
In the interim the staff of the Irish Embassy in London are available to provide all assistance they can to the Irish community on the islands. – Is mise,
PHILIP GRANT,
Director of Press Media Relations,
Department of Foreign Affairs Trade,
St Stephen’s Green,
Dublin 2.