Section 15 and 16 Manual English

The Department of Foreign Affairs
The Freedom of Information Acts 1997 and 2003
Section 15 and 16 Reference Books
A Guide to the Functions of, and Records held by, the

Department of Foreign Affairs
2006 Edition. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publishers.
May, 2006
CONTENTS
SECTION 15 MANUAL
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Routinely Available Information
1.3 Material Contained in the Department’s Section 16 Reference Book
2. HOW TO GET INFORMATION UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACTS
2.1 Applications under the FOI Acts

2.2 Assistance to Persons with Disabilities
2.3 FoI Decision making in the Department of Foreign Affairs
2.4 Right of Review and Appeal
2.5 Internal Review
2.6 Review by the Information Commissioner
2.7 Policy with regard to Confidentiality and Freedom of Information
2.8 Rights of Review or Appeal other than under the Freedom of Information Acts
3. FEES
3.1 Application Fees

3.2 Internal Review
3.4 Search and Retrieval and Photocopying Fees
3.5 Methods of Payment
4. THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
4.1 Mission Statement

4.2 Role of the Department
4.3 High Level Goals
4.4 Structure of the Department
4.5 Organisation at Headquarters
4.6 The Role of Embassies and Other Offices Abroad
4.7 Bodies under the Aegis of the Department
5. STRUCTURAL BREAKDOWN BY DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT
5.1 ANGLO-IRISH DIVISION

5.1.1 Role and Structure of the Division
5.1.2 Delivery of Service
5.1.3 Information Available
5.1.4 Classes of Records held in the Division
5.2 BILATERAL ECONOMIC RELATIONS DIVISION

5.3 CONSULAR AND PASSPORT DIVISION

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5.4 CORPORATE SERVICES DIVISION
5.5 CULTURAL DIVISION

5.6 DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION DIRECTORATE

5.6.1 Role and Structure of the Directorate
5.6.4 Classes of Records held in the Directorate
5.7 EUROPEAN UNION DIVISION

5.8 INSPECTION UNIT

5.8.1 Role and Structure of the Unit
5.8.4 Classes of Records held in the Unit
5.9 LEGAL DIVISION

5.10 POLITICAL DIVISION

5.11 PRESS SECTION

5.11.1 Role and Structure of the Section
5.11.4 Classes of Records held in the Section
5.12 PROTOCOL DIVISION

5.13 DIPLOMATIC NETWORK

5.13.1 Role and Structure of the Diplomatic Network
5.13.4 Classes of Records held by Irish Missions
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CONTENTS
SECTION 16 MANUAL
6. INTRODUCTION
7. RECRUITMENT AND EMPLOYMENT OF STAFF
7.1 Recruitment to the Department of Foreign Affairs

7.2 Recruitment of local chancery staff to Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions overseas
7.3 Recruitment of Election Monitors for Third Countries
7.4 Staff Regulations
8. CONTRACTS FOR THE SUPPLY OF GOODS AND SERVICES
9. USE OF CONSULTANTS
9.1 Use of Consultants by the Department

9.2 Engagement of Consultants under the Irish Aid Programme
10. ISSUE OF PASSPORTS TO IRISH CITIZENS
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Where to apply
10.3 Description of Service
10.4 Eligibility
10.5 How to apply
10.6 Types of Passports
10.7 Rules, Procedures, Practices, Guidelines, Interpretations and Precedents
10.8 Further Information
11. PROVISION OF CONSULAR SERVICES
11.1 Consular Protection of Irish citizens

11.2 Consular Protection of EU citizens
11.3 Other Consular services
11.4 Services relating to Irish citizenship
12. PROVISION OF VISA SERVICES
12.1 Issuing visas

12.2 Working visa and work authorisation scheme
13. DISBURSEMENT OF BILATERAL AID TO VOLUNTARY GROUPS
13.1 Development Cooperation Ireland Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations

13.2 Summary of Procedures
13.3 Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Fund
13.4 Emergency Preparedness and post-emergency Rehabilitation Fund
13.5 Principles and Good Practice of Humanitarian Donorship
13.6 Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS)
13.7 NGO Co-Financing Scheme
13.8 NGO Block Grant Scheme
13.9 In-Country Micro Projects
13.10 HIV/AIDS Programme Scheme (HAPS)
13.11 Human Rights and Democratisation Scheme
13.12 Personnel Funding
13.13 Partnership Fund 2005
13.14 Irish Missionary Resource Service (IMRS)
13.15 Balkans and CIS Development Cooperation Funding Scheme
13.16 Development Education Grant Scheme
13.17 Organisational Development Grant Scheme
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14. DISBURSEMENT OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO GROUPS WHICH PROMOTE
COOPERATION, RECONCILIATION AND UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE DIFFERENT
TRADITIONS IN IRELAND
14.1 EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE II)

14.2 The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund
15. SUPPORTING IRISH EMIGRANT GROUPS
15.1 Díon - Supporting the Irish in Britain

15.2 Supporting groups assisting Irish emigrants in countries other than Britain
APPENDICES
APPENDIX I: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX II: ORGANISATION CHART
APPENDIX III: CONTACT DETAILS FOR THE DEPARTMENT’S OFFICES IN IRELAND AND ABROAD
APPENDIX IV: LIST OF PUBLICATIONS AND INFORMATION SOURCES
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1. Introduction
1.1 Introduction
The Freedom of Information Act, 1997 (FOI Act) established three new statutory rights:
• a legal right for each person to access information held by public bodies;
• a legal right for each person to have official information relating to him/herself amended
where it is incomplete, incorrect or misleading, and
• a legal right to obtain reasons for decisions affecting oneself.
The Act asserts the right of members of the public to obtain access to official information to the
greatest extent possible consistent with the public interest and the right to privacy of individuals.
This reference book has been prepared and published in accordance with the requirements of Section
15 of the Act. Its purpose is to facilitate access to official information held by this Department by
outlining the structure and functions of the Department; details of the services we provide and how
they may be availed of; information on the classes of records we hold and information on how to
make a request to the Department under the Freedom of Information Act, 1997. A glossary of terms
appearing in the text of this reference book is set out in Appendix I. If there are other terms which
appear in this publication of which you are unsure of, please contact the Freedom of Information
Unit at the following address:
Freedom of Information Unit,

Department of Foreign Affairs,
76- 78 Harcourt Street Dublin 2
Tel: 01 408 2277
Fax: 01 408 2057
Email: foi@dfa.ie
The FOI (Amendment) Act, 2003 came into effect on 11 April, 2003. This Act introduced a number
of important amendments to the 1997 Act. The FoI Act 1997 and the FoI (Amendment) Act 2003
are known collectively as the Freedom of Information Acts 1997 and 2003 (FoI Acts). All
references in this manual to the Freedom of Information Act refers to the 1997 Act as amended by
the 2003 Act.
Copies of this publication are available on the Department’s website www.dfa.ie or can be
obtained, free of charge, from the Department’s Freedom of Information Unit.
1.2 Routinely Available Information
This Department currently makes information routinely available to the public in relation to its
functions, activities and schemes. Further information is also available from the Department of
Foreign Affairs website www.dfa.ie and on the Irish Aid website www.irishaid.gov.ie Such
information will continue to be available informally without the need to use the FOI Act. This
manual highlights, in relation to each of the Department’s areas of responsibility, where
information of this nature is available.
The FOI Acts are designed to allow public access to information held by public bodies which is
NOT routinely available through other sources. Access to information under the Acts is subject to
certain exemptions and involves specific procedures and time limits. This manual provides a guide
to the structure of the Department so as to help you access information under the FOI Act.
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1.3 Material Contained in the Department’s Section 16 Reference Book
The Section 16 Reference Book which accompanies this publication contains information on the
rules, procedures, practices, guidelines and interpretations used by the Department in relation to
the following schemes which affect members of the public:
• recruitment and employment of staff;

• issue of contracts for the supply of goods and services;
• use of consultants by the Department;
• issue of Passports to Irish citizens;
• provision of Consular and Visa services to Irish and other nationals;
• disbursement of Bilateral Assistance to voluntary groups;
• disbursement of financial assistance to groups which promote cooperation, reconciliation and
understanding between the different traditions in Ireland; and
• supporting Irish Emigrants Groups.
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2 How to get Information under the Freedom of Information Acts
2.1 Applications under the FOI Acts
Under the FOI Acts, anyone is entitled to apply for access to information not otherwise publicly
available. Each person has a right to:
• access records held by the Department;

• have personal information relating to oneself held by the Department corrected where it is
inaccurate, incomplete or misleading; and
• access reasons for decisions made by the Department directly effecting oneself.
The following records come within the scope of the Act:
• all records relating to personal information held by the Department irrespective of when
created;
• all other records created from commencement date of the Acts i.e. 21 April, 1998;
• any other records necessary to the understanding of a current record; and
• personnel records of serving staff created after 21 April, 1995 and those created prior to that
date where such records are being used or proposed to be used in a way which may adversely
affect the person involved.
A decision on a request is normally issued within 4 weeks. A week is defined in the FoI Acts to
mean 5 consecutive weekdays, excluding Saturdays and public holidays (Sundays are also
excluded, as they are not weekdays). However, there are some limited situations which could
mean that the period for a final decision may be longer than the normal four weeks. If this occurs,
the Department will promptly advise the requester in writing.
Applications for information under the FOI Acts should be addressed to:
The FOI Manager

76-78 Harcourt Street
Dublin 2.
Telephone (01) 408 2277
Fax (01) 408 2057
E-mail foi@dfa.ie
Applications for records under the Freedom of Information Acts must:
• be in writing and indicate that the information is being sought under the Freedom of
Information Acts;
• indicate, in as much detail as possible, the records being sought;
• indicate if information is required in a particular format, such as photocopies or on diskette;
and
• be accompanied by the appropriate fee (see chapter 3).
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Applicants may wish to use the FoI Application form available on our website or from the
Freedom of Information Unit.
Applicants are asked to provide as much detail as possible when compiling FoI requests as this
will assist the FoI Unit in processing your requests. Such applications also result in lesser charges
being incurred in search and retrieval fees where these fall to be paid (see chapter 3). Where
possible, please try to indicate the time period for which you wish to access records e.g. records
created between January 2005 and July, 2005. Also please try to be specify the areas of the
Department which you feel would be most relevant to your request.
Applicants are asked, if possible, to include a day time telephone number and/or email address
with their applications to enable the Department to contact you quickly should it be necessary to
clarify details of your request.
Applicants may, in certain circumstances (e.g. where personal information is sought), be asked to
prove their identity. The Department will contact such applicants in advance of issuing a decision
and seek the production of a passport, drivers licence or other such form of identity.
2.2 Assistance to persons with a disability
The Department’s FoI Unit is available to provide assistance to persons with a disability to
exercise their rights under the FoI Acts (e.g. accepting oral requests from requesters who are
unable to read, print or write due to their disability, enabling the requester to inspect or have
records explained to him or her).
2.3 FoI Decision Making in the Department of Foreign Affairs
Decisions on applications are made by nominated officers (at a level not below Third
Secretary/Higher Executive Officers), known as Decision Makers. Internal Reviews (see 2.5
below) are handled by nominated officers at a higher grade and are, generally, not made by the
direct supervisor of the officer who issued the initial decision.
The FoI Unit acknowledges receipt of FoI applications, not later than 2 weeks following their
receipt and forwards them to the FoI Decision Maker in the Unit/Section which holds the relevant
records. The nominated Decision Maker proceeds to deal with the request, with the advice and
support of the FoI Unit. The FoI Unit provides Decision Makers for areas of the Department
which do not have their own.
2.4 Rights of Review and Appeal
The Act sets out a series of exemptions to protect sensitive information where its disclosure may
damage key interests of the State or of third parties. Where the Department invokes these
provisions to withhold information, the decision may be appealed. Decisions in relation to deferral
of access, charges, forms of access, etc. may also be the subject of appeal.
2.5 Internal Review
You may seek an internal review of the initial decision if:
• you are dissatisfied with the initial response received i.e. access to information has been
refused, the form of access is not satisfactory or as stipulated;
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• you do not agree with charges being levied or the amount of charge being levied; or
• you have not received a reply within 4 weeks of your initial application. This is deemed to be
a refusal of your request and allows you to proceed to internal review.
You should normally seek an internal review within 4 weeks of being informed of a decision.
However, the making of a late appeal may be permitted in appropriate circumstances. Internal
reviews are carried out by an official of a higher grade than the official whose decision is being
appealed.
Requests for internal review, along with the appropriate fee (see chapter 3) should be submitted in
writing to:
The FOI Manager

Dublin 2.
Telephone (01) 408 2277
Fax (01) 408 2057
E-mail foi@dfa.ie
The Department must complete the review within 3 weeks. A week is defined in the Acts to mean
5 consecutive weekdays, excluding Saturdays and public holidays (Sundays are also excluded, as
they are not weekdays). You will be notified in writing of the outcome. Internal review must
normally be completed before an appeal may be made to the Information Commissioner.
If you are still dissatisfied following the completion of an internal review, you may seek
independent review of the decision from the Information Commissioner. Also, if you have not
received a reply to your application for internal review within 3 weeks, this is deemed to be a
refusal and you may appeal the matter to the Commissioner.
Appeals in writing may be made directly to the Information Commissioner at the following
address:
Office of the Information Commissioner

18 Lower Leeson Street
Dublin 2.
Telephone (01) 678 5222
Fax (01) 661 0570
E-mail: info@oic.ie
Further details on the role of the Information Commissioner and making an appeal can be found on
the Information Commissioner’s website www.oic.ie.
2.7 Policy with regard to Confidentiality and Freedom of Information
The Department of Foreign Affairs undertakes to treat as confidential information provided to it in

confidence by individuals or others, subject to the Department’s obligations under law, including
the Freedom of Information Acts. If, for any reason, it is wished that information provided to the
Department should not be disclosed because of its sensitive nature, it is incumbent upon the person
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or body, when supplying information, to make clear this wish and to specify the reasons for the
information’s sensitivity. The Department will consult with any individual or body so supplying
sensitive information before making a decision on any Freedom of Information request received.
2.8 Rights of Review or Appeal other than under the Freedom of Information Acts
Complaints about the quality of services or the manner in which they are delivered by the
Department of Foreign Affairs in Ireland or by an Embassy or Consulate abroad are normally
considered in the first instance by a supervisor in the Section or Mission concerned.
Persons who are not satisfied and who wish to make written complaints may do so by writing to
the Customer Service Officer, Department of Foreign Affairs, 80 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin
2, who will promptly investigate the matter and reply to the person concerned.
The Passport Office and Consular Division of the Department have dedicated Customer Services
Managers. Persons dissatisfied in any way with the service received from those offices should
write to:
Passport Office Consular Services

Customer Service Manager, Customer Service Manager
Passport Office, Consular Section,
Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs,
Molesworth Street, 69 – 71 St. Stephen’s Green,
Dublin 2. Dublin 2.
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3. Fees
3.1 Application fees
A standard fee of €15 must accompany a FoI request for records containing non personal
information. A reduced fee of €10 applies to holders of medical cards.
No fee is payable in cases where applicants are requesting:
• only personal information relating to themselves;

• an amendment to records containing personal information (section 17), or
• information regarding acts of public bodies that affect the requester (section 18)
3.2 Internal Review Fees
A standard fee of €75 must accompany most requests for an internal review of a decision. A
reduced fee of €25 applies to holders of medical cards.
No fee is payable for an internal review in cases where:
• the application fee was exempt when making the initial request (see 3.1 above);
• the public body failed to reply within the stipulated timeframe, or
• a review of a decision to impose a fee or deposit is being sought.
A standard fee of €150 must accompany most requests for a review by the Information
Commissioner. A reduced fee of €50 applies to holders of medical cards.
No fee is payable in cases where:
• the application fee was exempt when making the initial request (see 3.1 and 3.2 above);
• the public body failed to reply within the stipulated timeframe, or
• a review of a decision to impose a fee or deposit is being sought.
3.4 Search and Retrieval and Photocopying Fees
Fees may also be charged for search and retrieval of records and for photocopying records as
follows:
• in respect of personal records, a charge for the cost of copying the records requested will not
apply, save where a large number of records are involved;
• in respect of other (non-personal) information, fees may be charged in respect of the time
spent in efficiently locating and copying records, based on a standard hourly rate, prescribed
by the Minister for Finance. No charges may apply in respect of the time spent by public
bodies in considering requests.
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A deposit may be payable where the total fee is likely to exceed €50.79. In these circumstances,
the Department will, if requested, assist you to amend the request so as to reduce or eliminate the
amount of the deposit.
Search and Retrieval and Photocopying charges may be waived in the following circumstances:
• where the cost of collecting and accounting for the fee would exceed the amount of the fee
• where the information would be of particular assistance to the understanding of an issue of
national importance, or
• in the case of personal information, where such charges would not be reasonable having
regard to the means of the requester.
Section 47 of the FoIs Act sets of the rules for applying search and retrieval fees. Fees are
currently set, in accordance with Statutory Instrument Nos. 264 of 2003, 139 of 1998 and 13 of
1997, as follows:
• €20.95 per hour – search and retrieval;

• €0.04 per sheet for a photocopy;
• €0.51 for a 3 ½ inch computer diskette;
• €10.16 for a CD-ROM, and
• €6.35 for a Radiograph (X-ray).
3.5 Methods of Payment
Payments should be made by Bank Draft, Money Order, Postal order or cheque drawn on a bank in
the Republic of Ireland made payable to the Secretary General, Department of Foreign Affairs.
If a reduced fee is being claimed by virtue of holding a medical card, the request must be
accompanied by the Medical Card registration number, issuing Health Board and a consent to
allow the Health Board to confirm the details to the Department of Foreign Affairs.
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4. The Department of Foreign Affairs
4.1 Mission Statement
The Mission of the Department of Foreign Affairs is to advance Ireland’s political and economic
interests in the European Union and in the wider world, to promote Ireland’s contribution to
international peace, security and development both through the European Union and through active
participation in international organisations, in particular the United Nations, to protect our citizens
abroad, and to pursue reconciliation and partnership on the island of Ireland.
4.2 The Role of the Department
The Department of Foreign Affairs advises the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Ministers of State and
the Government on all aspects of foreign policy and coordinates Ireland’s response to international
developments. It also provides advice and support on all issues relevant to the pursuit of peace,
partnership and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, and between North and South of the island, and to
deepening Ireland’s relationship with Britain.
4.3 High Level Goals
• Work to achieve the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the sustained
operation of all its institutions, promoting co-operation, mutual understanding and respect
between both traditions on the island, between North and South in Ireland and between these
islands.
• Pursue Ireland's foreign policy in accordance with the ideals enshrined in the Constitution
and in conformity with the principles of the United Nations Charter, through the development
of our bilateral relations with other States, our participation in the European Union's
Common Foreign and Security Policy, and our active and principled participation in
international organisations.
• Promote and protect Ireland’s interests at the heart of the European Union as it continues to
evolve and enlarge, including through the further development of our relations with our
current and future EU partners.
• Promote Ireland’s trade, investment and other interests, including its culture, in close co-
operation with other Departments, State Agencies and the private sector, ensuring that the
State’s network of diplomatic and consular missions adds real value to this task.
• Make a substantive and effective contribution to achieving the Millennium Development

Goals, and to poverty reduction and sustainable growth in developing countries, through the
policy and programmes of Irish Aid, and by working for a just and stable international
economic system.
• Protect and support the interests of Irish citizens abroad, maintain and strengthen links with
people of Irish ancestry, and provide a modern and efficient passport and consular service.
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4.4 Structure of the Department
The Department currently comprises 12 Divisions/Units at Headquarters (HQ) and a total of 74

diplomatic and consular offices abroad (referred to as “Missions”), as well as the British-Irish
Intergovernmental Secretariat in Belfast and the North-South Ministerial Council Joint Secretariat in
Armagh.
4.5 Organisation at Headquarters
Details of the 12 Headquarters Units is outlined below. Although organised into distinct functional
units, there is a substantial degree of cooperation and interaction between units.
Anglo-Irish Division deals with Anglo-Irish relations and Northern Ireland.

Bilateral Economic Relations Division coordinates the promotion of Ireland’s economic interests
abroad.
Consular and Passport Division is responsible for providing consular and passport services, while the
Division’s Irish Abroad Unit coordinates the provision of services and assistance to Irish emigrants
abroad.
Corporate Services Division is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Department
including human resources, change management, training, accommodation, management services,
finance and information and communications technology.
Cultural Division has responsibility for cultural relations with other countries.
Development Cooperation Directorate is responsible for the administration of the Irish overseas
development programme, Irish Aid, and for the conduct of Irish development policy.
European Union Division coordinates Ireland’s approach within the EU
Inspection Unit is responsible for the examination of Ireland’s overseas missions to ensure effective
and productive deployment of resources.
Legal Division provides legal information and advice, particularly on matters of public international
law, human rights law and EU law.
Political Division is responsible for international political issues, including at the United Nations, and
manages Ireland’s participation in the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Protocol Division is responsible for the organisation of State and official visits to and from Ireland,
and for liaison with Embassies accredited to Ireland.
Press Section is responsible for informing the domestic and international media about developments
in Irish foreign policy.
An organisation chart is set out in Appendix II
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4.6 The Role of Embassies and Other Offices Abroad
Ireland’s diplomatic missions and consular offices are dedicated to the pursuit of Ireland’s interests
abroad and to enhancing Ireland’s international profile. They are the external offices of the State,
promoting Government policies and participating in the work of international organisations.
Ambassadors can also be accredited on a non-resident basis. Diplomatic relations are maintained
with 160 Governments.
Diplomatic and consular missions perform a range of representational, promotional and reporting
functions including:
• deepening Ireland’s relations with host governments and advancing our international
priorities and objectives;
• reporting on political, economic, legal, commercial and, as appropriate, EU developments;
• advancing Ireland’s economic interests through working with others in the public and private
sectors to expand trade and tourism, and to highlight the benefits of inward investment in
Ireland;
• overseeing the implementation of programmes in developing countries funded by the
Government’s overseas development programme, Irish Aid;
• providing assistance to Irish citizens abroad and maintaining contact with local Irish
communities; and
• promoting Irish culture and disseminating information on Ireland.
Missions accredited to multilateral organisations such as the United Nations present Ireland’s
views in negotiations and debate within these organisations.
The role of the Permanent Representation to the European Union (EU) in Brussels is to represent
the State in its interface with the EU institutions and in negotiations at official level in the Council
of Ministers. It also advises on negotiations at political level in the Council of Ministers and at the
European Council.
The Department’s network of 74 resident diplomatic and consular missions overseas includes 56
Embassies, 6 multilateral missions (to the European Union, the United Nations in New York and
Geneva, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Organisation for Economic
Cooperation and Development and the Council of Europe) and 12 Consulates-General and other
offices. In addition, there are 23 Honorary Consuls General and 63 Honorary Consuls who
provide assistance to Irish citizens in 58 countries.
At any one time, almost 50% of the Department’s staff of approximately 1,400 are serving abroad.
This figure includes some 300 locally recruited staff who, through their dedication and local
knowledge, make an invaluable contribution to the successful operation of our Missions.
Contact details for the Department’s Offices in Ireland and abroad are set out in Appendix III.
Details can also be found on the Department’s website www.dfa.ie
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4.7 Bodies under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs
The following are the bodies currently under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs:
• The Development Education Advisory Committee;

• The Díon Committee;
• The Board of the Ireland – United States Commission for Educational Exchange (Fulbright
Commission); and
• The Advisory Board for Irish Aid (formerly the Advisory Board for Development
Cooperation Ireland).
The Development Education Advisory Committee advises the Minister for Foreign Affairs and
the Development Cooperation Directorate of the Department of Foreign Affairs on policy matters
relating to development education and on strategies for promotion of development education; it
oversees reviews and evaluations of development education activities and manages an annual
consultation forum on development education.
The Díon Committee is an advisory committee to the Government established in response to

concerns about the situation of Irish emigrants in Britain.
Freedom of Information Requests for records relating to the Development Education Advisory
Committee (DEAC) and the Díon Committee should be made to:
The FOI Manager

Department of Foreign Affairs
Dublin 2.
Telephone (01) 408 2277
Fax (01) 408 2057
E-mail foi@dfa.ie
The Fulbright Commission oversees the official educational exchange programme between the
Governments of Ireland and the United States. For the purposes of the Freedom of Information
Acts, the Board of the Ireland – United States Commission for Educational Exchange
(Fulbright Commission) is a separate public body. Accordingly, any request for information
should be directed to:
The FoI Manager

Fulbright Commission
Brooklawn House
Shelbourne Road
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Telephone: 01 660 7670
Fax: 01 660 7668
Email: admin@fulbright.ie
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The Advisory Board for Irish Aid
The Advisory Board for Irish Aid (formerly, the Advisory Board for Ireland Aid and the
Advisory Board for Development Cooperation Ireland) was established in 2002 to provide general
oversight and advice to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the strategic direction of the
Government’s programme of assistance to developing countries. The Board’s mission is to:
• oversee the expanding programme;

• advise on strategic direction;
• support development research
• work closely with Irish Aid to maximise quality, effectiveness and accountability; and
• organise the Development Forum to facilitate strategic dialogue between Irish Aid and the
NGOs and missionaries.
Since 31 May, 2006, the Advisory Board for Irish Aid is subject to the Freedom of Information
Acts and requests for information can be addressed to:
The Freedom of Information Officer

The Advisory Board for Irish Aid
Bishop’s Square
Redmond’s Hill
Dublin 2
Telephone 01 408 2023
Fax 01 408 2303
Email: abia@dfa.ie
Website: www.abia.gov.ie
The Agency for Personal Services Overseas (APSO) and the National Committee for
Development Education (NCDE) were two of the public bodies covered by the extension to the
Freedom of Information Act in 2002
However, in accordance with a recommendation made in the Report of the Ireland Aid Review
Committee, the staff and functions of the Agency for Personal Services Overseas (APSO) and the
National Committee for Development Education (NCDE) were transferred to the Development
Cooperation Directorate of the Department of Foreign Affairs from 1 January, 2004.
The integration of these organisations means that they are no longer considered separate entities
under the Freedom of Information Acts. Request under the Freedom of Information Acts for
records once held by these bodies should be made to:
The FOI Manager

Dublin 2.
Telephone (01) 408 2277
Fax (01) 408 2057
E-mail foi@dfa.ie
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5. Structural Breakdown by Division of the Department
This chapter provides detailed information on the structure and areas of activity of the Divisions of
the Department at Headquarters and the Missions abroad. It also describes the categories of
information held and the ways in which they can be accessed, either through existing publications
or through the procedures set out in the FOI Act.
5.1 Anglo-Irish Division
The Department of Foreign Affairs advises the Government on all issues relevant to its aim of
securing lasting peace in Ireland in particular through the full implementation of the Good Friday
Agreement, the consolidation of its institutions, and the development of a spirit of friendship and
cooperation between North and South, and throughout these islands.
The role of the Division is to:
• Assist the Minister for Foreign Affairs in realising the Government’s policy goals with
regard to Northern Ireland and Anglo-Irish relations, especially the full implementation of
the Good Friday Agreement;
• Promote partnership on the island including through the North-South Ministerial Council and
the other institutions of the Agreement, thus deepening economic, social and cultural
relations between both parts of the island of Ireland;
• Promote peace and stability through the implementation of the policing, justice and security-
related aspects of the Agreement;
• Underpin the peace process in Northern Ireland and the border counties by contributing to
economic and social development, in particular in the most disadvantaged communities;
• Stimulate reconciliation between the unionist and nationalist traditions in Ireland;
• Further develop the close and positive relationship that exists between Britain and Ireland;
and
• Develop international support for the Government’s policies with regard to Northern Ireland
and British-Irish relations
The Division also provides part of the Secretariat for the International Fund for Ireland which was
established by the Irish and British Governments in 1986, with the objective of promoting
economic and social advances, encouraging contact, dialogue and reconciliation between the
different traditions in Ireland. The IFI is administered by an Independent Board which is assisted
by Joint Directors in Belfast and Dublin. The Fund is financed by international contributions from
the United States, the European Union, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
Service is provided to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, to the Minister of State, to the Taoiseach,
to other Ministers involved in Anglo-Irish and Northern Ireland affairs, to Missions abroad and to
other Government Departments. Service consists of advice and briefing, coordination, participation
in inter-Departmental and international meetings and reporting.
The Division provides financial support to voluntary groups which promote cooperation,
reconciliation and understanding between the different traditions in Ireland. Details on the EU
Peace II programme are available in Section 16 of this Reference Book.
19
The range of publications available relevant to the work of Anglo-Irish Division is set out in
Appendix IV. Further information on the work of Anglo-Irish Division may be obtained from the
Executive Officer, Anglo-Irish Division, telephone (01) 408 2286.
5.1.4 Classes of Records Held in the Division
The Division holds administrative and policy files relating to:
• the areas of responsibility listed at Section 5.1.1

• Ministerial and other correspondence.
20
5.2 Bilateral Economic Relations Division
With one of the most open economies in the world, Ireland is dependent on a liberalised and stable
global trading and investment environment. Our future economic growth will be closely linked to
growth in the world economy and will hinge on gaining increased access to international markets.
Foreign direct investment will continue to play a key role in Ireland’s prosperity.
The Division is the lead Unit for all bilateral economic relations and is responsible for overseeing
the Department’s role in relation to the Government’s Asia /Pacific strategies
• Pursue Ireland's economic and commercial interests abroad by leveraging the resources of
our diplomatic network in close cooperation with other Departments, State Agencies and the
private sector; and
• Provide a particular focus on the emerging markets in Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe
and the Middle East for Irish goods and services.
Service is provided to the Minister, to the Minister of State, to the Taoiseach, to other Divisions of
the Department, to Missions abroad, to other Government Departments and State agencies. Service
consists of providing advice and briefing, coordinating certain visits, participating in inter-
Departmental meetings and reporting on developments.
5.2.3 Information available
Information on the work of the Bilateral Economic Relations Division may be obtained from the
Third Secretary, Bilateral Economic Relations Division, telephone (01) 4082895.
5.2.4 Classes of records held
Administrative and policy files relating to:
• Bilateral Economic Relations

• Ministerial and other correspondence
• The Department’s role in relation to the Government’s Asia Strategy
21
5.3 Consular and Passport and Consular Division
The role of the Consular and Passport Division is to provide high quality passport and consular
services to the public in Ireland and abroad. It also oversees issues relating to the Irish community
resident abroad. The Division consists of three units:
Consular Section provides consular assistance to Irish citizens abroad and issues advice about
travelling in particular foreign countries. The Section also deals with citizenship applications from
abroad, issues civil letters of freedom in connection with marriages of Irish citizens abroad,
authenticates signatures on public documents for use abroad, oversees the appointment of
Honorary Consuls of Ireland and liaises with EU partners on consular matters.
The Passport Office oversees the issuing of Irish passports. As part of the continuous
modernisation of the Irish passport, in 2004 a Biometric Unit was established in the Passport
Office to plan the development of biometric passports in the future.
The Irish Abroad Unit deals with issues relating to the Irish community resident abroad.
Consular Services
In consultation with Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad, and, if necessary, those of our EU
partners, the Department’s Consular Section provides a range of consular services to the public
including relating to the protection of Irish citizens visiting or resident in other countries.
Irish citizens resident abroad can contact their nearest Embassy or Consulate for details of the type
of services provided and, if relevant, the charges for the provision of these services. Contact
details for Irish Embassies and Consulates are set out in Appendix III and on the Department’s
website www.dfa.ie
In cases where Irish citizens are resident in countries where there is no Irish representation they
can request consular assistance from an Embassy or Consulate of another European Union
Member State under the same conditions as the nationals of that state.
Passport Services
Passports are issued to Irish citizens by the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork and by Irish
Missions abroad. Irish citizens residing in the island of Ireland can apply for passports through the
Passport Express service. Passports are issued within ten working days in response to properly
completed Passport Express and counter applications.
Applications can also be posted directly to or made in person at the Passport Offices in Cork
(which caters for people residing in Munster) or Dublin (which deals with applications from
persons residing elsewhere in Ireland) or, outside Ireland, to the Irish Embassy or Consulate
accredited to an Irish citizen’s country of residence. Contact details for Irish Embassies and
Consulates are set out in Appendix III and on the Department’s website www.dfa.ie
22
Details of the fees applicable at the time of making an application are available from the Passport
Office, on the Department’s website www.dfa.ie or, for citizens living abroad, from the nearest
Irish Embassy or Consulate.
Irish Abroad
The Irish Abroad Unit provides service to the Minister, Minister of State, other Divisions of the
Department and Missions abroad on issues relating to the Irish community resident abroad. The
Unit also works closely with organisations in the statutory and non-statutory sector. Service
consists of advice, briefing and reporting on issues of relevance to our emigrant community, and
also includes liaison with groups in the voluntary sector on policy and funding issues.
General Information on Consular and Passport matters is available on the Department’s website
www.dfa.ie
The list of publications available relevant to the work of Consular and Passport Division is set out
in Appendix IV. Further information regarding the work of Consular and Passport Division may be
obtained from the following contact points:
Section Contact Point Tel. Number email

Passport Office Dublin Executive Officer (EO) (01) 673 3507 passportdublin@dfa.ie
Customer Care
Passport Office Cork Higher Executive Officer (HEO) (021) 4944722 passportcork@dfa.ie
Consular Section Third Secretary (01) 408 2308
Higher Executive Officer (HEO) (01) 408 2960
There is also a general passport recorded information telephone line: (01) 679 7600 or LoCall:
1890 426 800
Information on the work of the Irish Abroad Unit is available on the Department’s website and
may also be obtained from the HEO of the Irish Abroad Unit at telephone (01) 408 2739.
5.3.4 Classes of Records Held in the Consular and Passport Division
Passport Office
Personal information relating to passport applicants
Administrative and Policy files relating to:

• the supply of passport booklets;
• the Passport Office computer system;
• cooperation with An Post;
• the introduction of the EU format passport;
• diplomatic and official passports;
• passports for minors, adopted children and children in the care of the Health Boards; and
• prosecutions for passport offences.
23
Consular Section
Personal information relating to:

• persons to whom consular services are provided.
Administrative/Policy files relating to:
• the appointment of Honorary Consuls;

• the general welfare of Irish citizens in particular countries; and
• the provision of advice to intending travellers.
Irish Abroad Unit

• Contacts with organisations in the statutory and non-statutory sectors in Ireland and abroad;
• Díon funding;
• Task Force on Policy regarding Emigrants;
• Administration of the Support for Irish Emigrant Groups programme;
• Internal administration; and
Visa Services
The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has responsibility for immigration
matters and decisions in relation to the granting of Visas to foreign nationals.
In January 2006, the Government established the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
(INIS) within the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. This agency is responsible for
processing all visa applications made within Ireland. The public office is located at 13/14 Burgh
Quay, Dublin 2. Further details can be found at www.justice.ie
Irish Embassies and Consulates issue visas (including work visas and work authorisations)
overseas on behalf of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Citizens of countries
who require a visa to enter Ireland should make their application at the Irish Embassy or Consulate
accredited to their country of residence (see Appendix III or www.dfa.ie). Where there is no
Embassy accredited, applications should be made to:
The Visa Office

Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
13/14 Burgh Quay
Dublin 2
Application forms and information on applying for a visa, (including details of visa required
countries) can be obtained from the Visa Office, Irish Embassies and Consulates and the
Department’s website www.dfa.ie.
The Department of Foreign Affairs headquarters and Missions abroad hold files pertaining to
personal information relating to visa applicants and also administrative/policy files relating to Irish
24
immigration and visa policy and related matters and the visa and immigration policies and
procedures of some other countries.
5.4 Corporate Services Division
Corporate Services Division is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Department
including human resources, change management, training, accommodation, management services,
finance and information and communications technology. The Division consists of the following
sections:
• Human Resources I who oversee the recruitment and assignment of staff, maintenance of
personnel records, industrial relations, welfare of staff at Headquarters;
• Human Resources II deal with the welfare and conditions of staff at Missions abroad and
local recruitment of staff.
• Decentralisation Unit is overseeing the transfer of the Development Cooperation
Directorate to Limerick and other matters relating to decentralisation affecting the
Department and its staff.
• Change Management/Training Unit facilitates the development of change initiatives in the
Department including the implementation of the Department’s business planning and
performance management systems. The Unit is also responsible for training and
development for all staff at headquarters and abroad, including locally hired staff;
• Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Unit manages the Department’s
Information Technology and Communications systems at home and abroad;
• Accommodation Unit oversees with the provision and maintenance of accommodation for
the Department at home and abroad;
• Finance and Planning Unit manages the Department’s accounting and budgetary
arrangements;
• Freedom of Information and Coordination Unit deals with applications made under the
FOI Act and acts as coordinator for material which requires a cross multi-Divisional input.
The Unit also oversees the Department’s knowledge management strategy, the upkeep of the
Department’s website and the work of the Library, Registry, Information Unit and the
Department’s Archives;
• Management Services deals with the provision and maintenance of office equipment,
security, internal post services and other matters relating to the day to day running of the
Department, and
• Translation Section provides translation services for the Department and, on request, for
other Government Departments and queries.
Corporate Services Division is also responsible for:
• responding to enquiries from the public about the organisation and structure of the Department;
• responding to customer complaints relating to all areas of the Department;
• liaison with the Office of the Ombudsman in relation to all areas of the Department;
• procedures for the establishment of diplomatic relations and resident Missions;
• coordinating the implementation of the SMI in the Department;
• coordination of the Department’s inputs into Social Partnership agreements;
• the production and circulation of the Department’s publications on aspects of Ireland; and
• management of the Department’s website – www.dfa.ie
25
Support services (covering the work of Human Resources, Change Management/Training,

Finance, Planning, ICT, Management Services and Accommodation Sections) are provided to the
Minister, to the Minister of State, to the other Divisions and Sections of the Department at
Headquarters and to Missions abroad as well as to other relevant Departments and Agencies (e.g.
the Department of Finance, the Comptroller and Auditor General, the Information Commissioner,
the Ombudsman).
Freedom of Information matters are carried out in line with the Department’s obligations under the
Freedom of Information Acts.
Information on Ireland is provided to members of the public abroad through the publication of
information materials and responses to queries received by Irish Missions abroad.
The list of publications available relevant to the work of Corporate Services Division is set out in
Appendix IV. Further information regarding the work of Corporate Services Division may be
obtained from the following contact points:
Section Contact Point Tel. No.

Human Resources I HEO 408 2246
Human Resources II HEO 408 2034
Decentralisation Unit HEO 4082108
Change Management Unit APO 408 2595
Training Unit EO 408 2561
Accommodation Unit Assistant Principal Officer (APO) 408 2641
ICT Unit Administration Manager 408 2541
Finance Unit HEO 408 2779
FoI/Coordination Unit FoI Manager 408 2277
Library Librarian 408 2836
Archives Archivist 864 3425
Registry Registrar 408 2255
Knowledge First Secretary 408 2048
Management/Website
Management Services HEO 408 2123
Translation Unit Head Translator 408 2477
5.4.4 Classes of Records held in the Corporate Services Division
Human Resources (I and II), Change Management, Training and Decentralisation Units
Personnel files on each staff member of the Department (excluding locally-recruited staff abroad).
• the organisation and structure of the Department;
26
• the organisation and structure of other Foreign Ministries;
• human resources policy and strategy;
• numbers of staff employed;
• promotion competitions;
• staffing of Irish Missions abroad;
• applications for employment in the Department;
• local staff serving at Missions overseas;
• Strategic Management Initiative;
• Change Management Initiatives;
• implementation of the new performance management development system;
• discipline and dismissal of staff;
• Ministerial and other Correspondence;
• issues dealt with by the EU Working Group on Administrative Affairs;
• living and working conditions in other countries;
• conditions of service for staff serving overseas, and
• training activities for DFA staff;
• industrial relations issues.
Decentralisation Files
• The Department’s Decentralisation Implementation Plan;
• Committees dealing with decentralisation;
• Correspondence with Department of Finance;
• Other general administrative /policy files relating to decentralisation of DCD.
Finance and Planning Unit
Personal information relating to salary and travel of members of staff.
• Departmental Budgetary and Accounting issues

• Appropriation Accounts
• Accounts of Irish Diplomatic and Consular missions
• Correspondence with the Department of Finance
• Correspondence with the Comptroller and Auditor general
Management Services Unit
• provision of office equipment and supplies

• security at Headquarters buildings.
FOI and Coordination Unit
• the Freedom of Information Acts;

• coordination of cross Divisional issues;
27
• correspondence with the Ombudsman;
• the establishment of diplomatic relations with other States;
• the establishment of resident Missions in other counties;
• Knowledge Management, upkeep of the Departments ebsite
• the services provided by the Library, Archives, Registry and the Information Unit;
• Ministerial and other Correspondence, and
• The production of the Department’s publications such as Ireland in Brief and various fact
sheets for use by Missions abroad and visiting delegations to Ireland (i.e. fact sheets on
issues such as the Irish Constitution, the National Flag and Anthem, Irish Folklore, the
President, and members of the Government.
ICT Unit
• the Department’s Information and Communication Technology systems;

• provision of ICT goods and services;
• issues dealt with by the EU Working Groups on Telecommunications, and
• Cross departmental ICT systems and services.
•
Accommodation Unit
Administrative and Policy files relating to:
• the acquisition, furnishing and maintenance of the Department’s offices in Ireland and all
premises owned or leased by the Department abroad, and
• Ministerial and other general correspondence
28
5.5 Cultural Division
Cultural diplomacy is an important aspect of the promotion of Ireland abroad. Against the
backdrop of Ireland’s rich heritage in the arts, literature and design, the Department’s Cultural
Division works primarily through the Department’s network of Embassies abroad and in co-
operation with Government Departments, State bodies and individuals. In particular, the Division
works closely with the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism and with Culture Ireland on cultural
projects and on the operation of cultural agreements with several foreign countries. It also works
with the Department of Education and Science to promote educational exchanges and liaises with
the Fulbright Commission on the administration of the Commission’s programme of scholarly
exchanges with the United States. Cultural Division also funds 50 % of the cultural programme of
the Centre Culturel Irlandais in Paris which is the former Irish College. The Centre is a venue for
cultural and educational exchange between Ireland and France. The Division also supports
Embassy initiatives in regard to the holding of Irish cultural events, including exhibitions,
concerts, readings and lectures.

• raise the profile of Ireland by promoting its arts, literature and design
• strengthen bilateral relations with other countries through cultural links
• promote greater mutual understanding through culture
Cultural Division provides support services to the Minister, Minister of State, to other Divisions of
the Department at HQ and to Missions abroad in the form of policy advice and briefing on all
aspects of the promotion of Irish culture abroad.
Information on the work of Cultural Division may be sought from the Division at (01) 4082020 and
(01) 4082805.
• Cultural Relations with other countries;

• Cultural Agreements with other countries;
• Ireland-United States Commission for Educational Exchange, and
• Ministerial and other Correspondence.
29
5.6 Development Cooperation Directorate
5.6.1 Role and Structure of the Directorate
Development cooperation policy has as its absolute priority the reduction of poverty, inequality
and exclusion in developing countries. It embraces the broad range of trade, investment and other
issues which affect developing countries. Development assistance refers to support provided by
developed to developing countries. Ireland is committed to achieving the UN target for official
development assistance (ODA) of 0.7% of GNP. The Irish Aid budget for 2006 is €600m and €2.1
billion will be spent on ODA in the three years 2006-2008. This will ensure that further progress
is made towards reaching the UN target.
The Development Cooperation Directorate (DCD) is responsible for pursuing Ireland’s policy of
international development cooperation and for implementing and managing its aid programme,
which is known as Irish Aid. The resources available to Irish Aid are used to promote the
development of the poorest countries in the world with a particular emphasis on the needs of sub-
Saharan Africa.
The role of the Directorate is to
• manage the Irish Aid programme to the highest standards of international best practice;
• make an effective contribution to efforts to increase the coherence and impact of
international development cooperation; and
• work closely with and support Irish NGOs and missionary organisations in pursuit of their
critically important roles in development assistance.
The work of the Directorate is carried out by ten sections:

• UN (Multilateral Assistance);
• EU (Multilateral Assistance);
• Programme Countries (two sections) (Bilateral Assistance);
• Emergency and Recovery;
• Civil Society;
• Technical;
• Evaluation and Audit;
• Public Information and Development Education (including White Paper); and
• Corporate Development and Decentralisation.
UN (Multilateral Assistance)
The UN Multilateral Section is responsible for all development related policy and funding issues
arising at the UN and the Bretton Woods Institutions (World Bank and IMF).
The UN Multilateral Section is also responsible for preparing and coordinating national policy
positions for major UN Summits in the economic and social area. It coordinates our policy
positions in relation to the development issues arising at the UN Economic and Social Council
(ECOSOC), at the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly and at the Executive Board of
the World Bank. The Section has taken the lead in preparing and promoting a national policy
approach to the issue of the debt burden on the world’s poorest countries. In coordination with
Technical Section, Multilateral Section has taken an active role in all UN conferences dealing with
HIV/AIDS.
30
On the funding side, the Section is responsible for advising on the spending of Ireland's voluntary
contributions to UN Funds, programmes and specialised agencies. In addition, the Section is
responsible for contributions to a number of World Bank Trust Funds.
Annual consultations are held with a number of the biggest recipients of DCD’s funding, including
the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nation’s Children’s Fund (UNICEF) , the
UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human
Rights (OHCHR) and the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).
EU (Multilateral Assistance)
The EU Multilateral Section provides advice to the Minister on Ireland’s participation in the
formulation and implementation of EU Development Policies. In particular, it is responsible for
Ireland’s contribution to the European Development Fund, which is associated with the Cotonou
Agreement, the most recent formal agreement governing the aid framework between the EU
Member States and the ACP countries (the 77 African, Caribbean and Pacific states).
Programme Countries (Bilateral Assistance)
The Programme Countries Sections are the primary interface between the bilateral Country
programmes and DCD. These sections coordinate and support the implementation of the
programmes in line with Country Strategy Papers and with Irish Aid principles. Overall
responsibility for the management and day-to-day implementation of individual Country
Programmes lies with the Irish Embassy in that country. The Programme Countries Sections
facilitate communication between sections in DCD and the Embassies in the Programme
Countries.
In addition, responsibility for the Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia (PPECA)
lies with a Programme Countries Section. This scheme is intended to assist people in poverty in
countries of the Balkans, the Commonwealth of Independent States (former Soviet Union) as they
undergo the transition to democracy and recover from the armed conflicts of the 1990s. The small
and medium-sized projects and programmes that are funded are carried out by Irish, international
and local NGOs, by international intergovernmental organisations, United |Nations agencies or in
partnership with other donor countries.
Emergency and Recovery Assistance
The Emergency and Recovery Section is responsible for the timely and effective delivery of
Ireland’s humanitarian assistance, which is mainly channelled through Irish and international
NGOs, UN agencies such as the UN High Commission for Refugees and international
organisations such as the International Committee for the Red Cross. The Section administers Irish
Aid’s Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Fund and the Emergency Preparedness and Post-
Emergency Rehabilitation Fund, which provides recovery and reconstruction assistance to
countries emerging from conflict or large-scale disaster.
Civil Society, Human Rights and Democratisation
The Civil Society Section is responsible for the development and implementation of a civil society
development policy for the Irish Aid programme. It is the primary interface between Irish Aid and
31
the Development NGO community. It supports and monitors the implementation of the Multi
Annual Partnership Scheme (MAPS), the Civil Society Fund, and the Micro-projects scheme.
Technical Section
The Technical Section was established in 2003 with the objective of providing technical oversight
and support for a complex and expanding Irish Aid programme. It is established as a flexible unit
which can respond to diverse needs right across the programme.
Key responsibilities of the Section include the development of sectoral policies and guidelines; the
provision of advice regarding the use of different aid instruments; providing guidance and
participation in the planning of expenditure programmes; ensuring policy coherence and institutional
memory; representing Irish Aid at international meetings and linking in with international best
practice; and contracting research and technical support which is relevant to programme needs.
Evaluation and Audit
This Section is responsible for evaluation and audit functions across the Irish Aid programme. The
Evaluation and Audit Section conducts an active schedule of evaluations and audits with a view to
searching continuously for improvements in programme implementation and to maintaining high
standards of accountability in the Irish Aid programme. It underwent a Strategic and Operational
Review in 2001. One outcome of this review was the introduction of a Risk Management System
into Irish Aid.
Public Information and Development Education
This Section is responsible for increasing public awareness and public ownership of the Irish Aid
programme, and for deepening public understanding of the underlying causes of global inequality
and injustice. Key responsibilities of the Section are the development and implementation of a
communications strategy for the Irish Aid programme, responding to information requests,
implementation of the three-year strategy plan for development education, “Deepening Public
Understanding of International Development”, and the administration of the Development
Education Grants Scheme, which aims to enable groups and organisations to implement
development education projects and programmes and to undertake research. An organisational
development grant scheme is also available.
This Section also manages Irish Aid’s fellowship programme in partnership with the Irish Council
for Overseas Students and Kimmage Manor’s Development Studies Centre.
In addition, the Government is currently preparing a White Paper on Ireland’s official programme
of Overseas Development Assistance (ODA). The White Paper will set out clearly the
Government’s policy for the future direction of its official programme of ODA which is managed
by Irish Aid. The White Paper will be published in September 2006.
32
Corporate Development and Decentralisation
The Corporate Development and Decentralisation Section deals with a range of corporate
functions, including decentralisation, human resources, internal coordination, accounts, statistics
and input to the annual Estimates process. This Section also monitors and advises on the
commissioning of consultancies. Irish Aid commissions consultancies in circumstances where
specialized knowledge or skills are not available in-house or where an independent evaluation of
programmes or of funding proposals is required.
The Secretariat to the Advisory Board for Irish Aid is also based in DCD. Further details on the
Advisory Board can be found in chapter 4.7 of this manual.
Assistance is provided by Irish Aid both directly and indirectly. Directly, Irish Aid works closely
with its partner Governments in Africa and Asia towards a shared objective of reducing poverty in
these countries. Indirectly, Irish Aid channels funds through international organisations, such as
the UN agencies, and NGOs with the key objective of reducing poverty in a sustainable way
throughout the developing world. Development Cooperation is delivered through a variety of
mechanisms including:
• A network of embassies/aid offices located in our partner countries including Ethiopia,

Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, South Africa, Timor-Leste, Vietnam,
South Africa, Palestine and Sierra Leone;
• Collaboration with Non-Governmental Organisations which extends the reach of Irish Aid to
other parts of the world including Central and South America;
• International agencies which deal with emergency and humanitarian crises such as the
International Red Cross; and
• International development and financial bodies such as the World Bank Group, the UN
family of development agencies and EU bodies.
The range of publications available relevant to the work of DCD is set out in Appendix IV. Further
information on the work of DCD may be obtained from the Information Unit, Development
Cooperation Directorate, telephone (01) 408 2423 and also on www.irishaid.gov.ie
5.6.4 Classes of Records Held in the Directorate
Personal Information relating to:
• Staff recruited in Ireland and employed on programmes funded by Irish Aid; and
• Specialist staff employed with Development Cooperation Directorate.
• UN Development Agencies
• European Development Fund

33
• Technical Cooperation Agreements
• Programme Countries
• Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia
• Emergency Humanitarian Assistance
• Multi-bilateral Assistance
• NGO Co-financing Schemes
• Policy Development
• Development Assistance Committee of the OECD
• Internal Audits
• Evaluations
• Development Education Grant Schemes and Partnership Agreements
• Fellowships
• White Paper Process
• Public information/publicity material
• Irish Aid Accounting Systems
• Terms and Conditions for Temporary Employees
• Decentralisation
• Consultancy Assignments
• Procurement
• Ministerial and Other Correspondence
34
5.7 European Union Division
5.7.1 Role and Structure of European Union Division
EU membership continues to be of fundamental importance to Ireland. The Union provides the

context for promoting prosperity, employment, sustainable development, peace and security in
Ireland, in Europe and in the wider world. Ireland can best pursue its objectives within the Union,
as demonstrated by its recent Presidency, by remaining positively engaged at the heart of the
Union’s activities.
A strategic and coherent approach also requires efficient arrangements for policy coordination
within the Irish administration. The Department of Foreign Affairs, working closely with all other
Departments and notably with the Department of the Taoiseach, has a particular responsibility to
ensure a coordinated response across the range of EU issues. Ireland’s Permanent Representation
in Brussels plays a central role in advancing Ireland’s interests in the EU.
It is important that the Union, as it evolves, continues to be seen as accessible and relevant to the
Irish public.
The outcome of negotiations on the Union’s future financing will significantly shape the Union’s
policy priorities until 2013. The further development of bilateral relations with all our fellow
Member States and with the candidate countries will be an increasingly important dimension of
Ireland’s approach.
The Union's ability to contribute to international peace, security and stability is being enhanced
through further improvements in its Common Foreign and Security Policy and through the
development of its operational capacity for conflict prevention, humanitarian and crisis
management tasks. These and other issues will create major opportunities and challenges for the
Union and its Member States and demand a strategic response from the Department of Foreign
Affairs and the Irish administration as a whole.
The role of European Union Division is:

• to promote and protect Ireland’s interests in the European Union, and to that end develop and
pursue a strategic, coordinated and coherent response to its ongoing agenda and its future
development;
• to advise and inform the Government on all issues relating to the future enlargement of the
Union and the European Constitution; and
• to advance Ireland’s national position in the negotiations on the Financial Framework for
2007-2013.
The Division consists of five sections which broadly cover:
• EU Coordination, Institutions and Oireachtas Scrutiny Unit which oversees preparations for
EU meetings at senior political level, services the Oireachtas Committee on EU and deals
with scrutiny by the Oireachtas of EU legislation.
• European Constitution Unit is responsible for matters relating to the European Constitution
and Irish ratification thereof and issues relating to communicating about Europe.
35
• EU Common Policies, JHA and OECD Section is responsible for the Department’s input
with regard to the EU’s common policies, including as regards the current negotiations on
the future financial perspectives for the period 2007 to 2013, the Justice and Home Affairs
area, and for coordinating Ireland’s role in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and
Development.
• EU Enlargement and Eastern Europe Section contributes to Government policy on EU

Enlargement and on EU relations with Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The unit also
manages the Deparment's Accession Training Programme, which provides assistance and
advice to the new EU Member States and candidate countries.
• EU External Relations Section supports the development of Ireland's position on issues

relevant to EU trade and economic relations with third countries. The Section liaises closely
with the Permanent Representation of Ireland in Brussels, other Divisions and Government
Departments.
the Department and Missions abroad, particularly the Permanent Representation to the European
Union in Brussels, to other Government Departments and State agencies. Service consists of
advice and briefing, coordination, participation in inter-Departmental and international meetings
and reporting.
Information on the work of European Union Division may be obtained from the Executive Officer,
Coordination, European Union Division, telephone (01) 408 2500.
Personal information relating to staffing of the EU institutions by Irish personnel.
• EU policies and negotiations in all areas, including IGC, Enlargement, External Relations,
institutional issues;
• Coordination on WTO, and OECD economic issues; and
36
5.8 Inspection Unit
5.8.1 Role and Structure of the Unit
The Inspection Unit examines, in a systematic way, the operation of Missions abroad with a view
to ensuring resources are deployed as effectively and as productively as possible in line with
overall Departmental strategy.
The role of the Unit is to:
• examine how Headquarters and overseas Missions are contributing to the achievement of
the Department’s High Level Goals and Objectives in the Strategy Statement;
• examine whether Divisions and Missions have the appropriate resources to achieve their
objectives and how they are managing those resources;
• examine the extent to which the interaction between Headquarters and Missions abroad can
be further developed.
The Unit currently comprises 3 staff, An Assistant Secretary, an Assistant Principal Officer and a
Clerical Officer.
The Unit provides service to the Secretary General and the Management Advisory Committee and
to the Missions and Divisions it inspects.
Information on the work of the Inspection Unit may be obtained from the Inspection Unit, (01) 408
2816.
5.8.4 Classes of Records Held in the Unit

• inspection visits to Irish diplomatic and consular missions;
• information and guidance on inspection work
37
5.9 Legal Division
The Department's Legal Division provides legal information and advice to the Minister for Foreign
Affairs, particularly on matters of public international law, human rights law and EU law, and
represents Ireland in international legal proceedings and in international fora and negotiations
concerned with international legal matters. The Division is also responsible for laying before the
Dáil international agreements to which the State has become a party, for making available to the
public details of such agreements and for registering them with the UN Secretariat.
The Division, which is headed by a Legal Adviser, is divided into 7 sections which broadly cover:
• EU Constitution, Human Rights (non Council of Europe).

• Council of Europe, Organisation for Security and Cooperation In Europe (OSCE),
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Bilateral Economic
Relations Division (BERD), Consular and Passport issues.
• Anglo Irish matters, Law of the Sea, Development Cooperation Directorate matters.
• International Criminal Law (Courts and Tribunals, Humanitarian Law, Extradition and
Mutual Assistance), International Immunities and Diplomatic Relations.
• EU Division issues, CFSP/ESDP, ECTHR Co Agent.
• UN (6th Committee), Terrorism, Disarmament, Political Division Regional Desks, Law of the Sea.
• Treaty Officer, Extradition and Mutual Assistance Requests Office Manager/Divisional Coordinator.
Service, in the form of information and advice on legal matters, is provided to the Minister, to the
Minister of State, to the Divisions and Sections of the Department at Headquarters and to Missions
abroad.
The range of publications available relevant to the work of Legal Division is set out in Appendix
IV. Further information on the work of Legal Division may be obtained from the First Secretary,
Legal Division, telephone (01) 4082804 or (01) 4082890.

• Internal Administration • Ministerial Correspondence
• EU matters • Private International Law
• Irish Treaty Series • Hague Conference on Private
• Law of the Sea International Law
• UNCITRAL • UNIDROIT
• Council of Europe • Anglo-Irish matters
• OSCE • Development Cooperation matters
• Human Rights • International Humanitarian Law
• International Agreements • Bilateral agreements
• Law of the United Nations • Domestic legislation.
38
5.10 Political Division
5.10.1 Role and Structure of Political Division
Ireland has an abiding interest in a stable, secure, inclusive and cooperative international environment.
Through our bilateral relations and through our membership of international organisations and fora,
we will continue to pursue Irish interests in this regard in a manner which is fully consistent with
Ireland’s foreign policy, including our policy of military neutrality.
The role of Political Division is to advise the Minister on the development of relations with other
countries, on Irish participation in the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) of the EU as
well as in international organisations such as the United Nations (UN)
The Division is divided into 11 sections:
• Political Secretariat and Coordination

Coordinates Political Division, with a specific focus on Ireland’s overall input to the EU’s
Common Foreign & Security Policy (CFSP). The Secretariat is also responsible for handling
CFSP institutional issues, and supports the work of the Political Director.
• Africa
Pursues the objectives of peace and stability in Africa, both bilaterally and through our
membership of international organisations.
• The Americas
Contributes to Ireland’s close bilateral relations with the US and Canada and manages Ireland’s
foreign policy towards Latin American and Caribbean countries.
• Asia and Oceania

Manages Ireland’s bilateral relations with the countries of the Asian region, implements Ireland’s
Asia Strategy and contributes to the strengthening of multilateral processes in the Asian region.
• Europe
Develops political relations with countries of the enlarged EU, both bilaterally and in a European
Union context, and contributes to the development of peace, security and stability in the Western
Balkans.
• Middle East and North Africa

Manages Ireland’s bilateral relations with countries of the region and works with our partners in
the EU and with the international community to promote efforts to achieve stability and security in
the region.
• Russia, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, OSCE and Council of Europe

Manages relations with countries in Eastern Europe outside the enlarged EU and with the Southern
Caucasus and Central Asia in order to promote stability, democracy, human rights and economic
progress.
• Disarmament and Non Proliferation

Pursues the elimination of nuclear weapons and the prevention of further proliferation of nuclear
weapons capability.
39
• Human Rights
Maintains and develops Ireland’s contribution to international efforts to ensure respect and
protection for human rights and basic freedoms.
• International Security Policy

Manages the security aspects of Ireland’s foreign policy in the context of the EU’s Common
Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), taking account of our own specific interests and concerns.
• United Nations, International Terrorism and Illicit Drugs

Manages and promotes Ireland’s participation at the UN. Terrorism Section promotes increased
international co-operation in the fight against terrorism and illicit drugs both bilaterally and
through relevant multilateral organisations.
the Department and Missions abroad in the form of advice and briefing on international issues,
particularly those being addressed within the framework of the CFSP.
The Division maintains contact with non-governmental organisations, particularly those involved
in the human rights field and responds to correspondence or approaches from lobby groups, Public
Representatives or individuals on international issues.
The range of publications available relevant to the work of Political Division is set out in
Appendix V. Further information on the work of Political Division may be obtained from the Third
Secretary, Political Secretariat, Political Division, telephone (01) 408 2013.

• political issues arising in the CFSP context;
• issues arising in multilateral organisations including the UN system, OSCE, Western
European Union (WEU), Council of Europe, Partnership for Peace (PfP);
• bilateral political relations;
• expenditure from CFSP budget; and
40
5.11 Press Section
5.11.1 Role and Structure of Press Section
Press Section is responsible for presenting and explaining the Department’s work to the domestic
and international media and for providing the Minister and Ministers of State with advice and
assistance on media issues. The Section’s staff respond to queries from the media about
developments relating to Northern Ireland and Irish foreign policy. The Section arranges media
briefings, issues press releases and provides information through the Internet and the publication of
information materials.
Assistance and advice in relation to media issues is provided to the Minister, to the Minister of
State and to the Department. Information is provided to the media in response to their queries and
through the issue of press releases and information materials.
Information may also be obtained from the Third Secretary, Press Section, telephone (01) 408
2275.
5.11.4 Classes of Records Held in the Section

• requests for interview;
• press reports from Diplomatic and Consular missions abroad;
• visits by media representatives;
• current issues (e.g. events, conferences);
• recurring issues (e.g. Human Rights); and
• administration of the Section.
41
5.12 Protocol Division
The role of Protocol Division is:
• to organise visits abroad by the President;

• to organise other high-level visits abroad;
• to organise visits to Ireland by Heads of State, Heads of Government, Foreign Ministers and
other officials and working visits;
• to liaise with Embassies in relation to the accreditation of foreign representatives and the
operation of their Missions in Ireland; and
• to monitor and process permission for foreign military aircraft to overfly and land in Ireland
and for naval vessels to visit Irish ports.
Protocol Section is divided into two sections:

• Protocol I deals with incoming and outgoing visits and official hospitality.
• Protocol II is responsible for the administrative arrangements applicable to the Diplomatic
Corps accredited to Ireland and clearance for aircraft and naval vessels.
Protocol Division provides a service to the President by organising State, official and working
visits abroad and incoming visits at Head of State level. This is done in conjunction with the
Department of the Taoiseach and the Office of the President as well as the host country, the
relevant Irish Embassy and other relevant bodies.
Service is also provided to the Taoiseach through the organisation of visits to Ireland by Heads of
Government and to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Ministers of State through the
organisation of visits to Ireland and official hospitality hosted by them. Service is also provided to
the Taoiseach and other Ministers in the context of certain high-level official visits abroad.
Service is provided to the Minster for Foreign Affairs, Ministers of State and on occasion to other
Ministers through hospitality provided and managed in Iveagh House
Protocol Division administers the arrangements for the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Ireland in
accordance with the Diplomatic Relations and Immunities Act 1967.
Advice and support are provided to Irish Missions abroad as well as to other Government
Departments and State agencies on protocol aspects of visits, hospitality, messages and matters
related to the Diplomatic Corps.
Information on the work of Protocol Division may be obtained from the First Secretary, Protocol I
Section, telephone (01) 408 2049.
42
Protocol I
Files relating to:
• organisation of visits abroad by the President;

• organisation of certain visits abroad by the Taoiseach, Minister for Foreign Affairs and other
Ministers and Ministers of State;
• organisation of visits to Ireland by Heads of State, Heads of Government, Foreign Ministers
and other dignitaries;
• official hospitality offered on behalf of the Minister or Ministers of State; and
Protocol II
Files relating to:
• diplomatic and consular missions and representatives accredited to Ireland;

• overflight/landing permission for foreign military and foreign military aircraft and for naval
vessels visiting Irish ports (in conjunction with Political Division);
• messages of congratulation or condolence to and from the President, Taoiseach and Minister
for Foreign Affairs;
• conferring of honours on Irish citizens by foreign Governments;
• EU Chiefs of Protocol Working Group; and
43
5.13 Diplomatic Network
5.13.1 Role and Structure of the Diplomatic Network
Ireland maintains diplomatic relations with 160 Governments. In addition to offices in Armagh
and Belfast, the Department currently maintains a network of 74 missions (56 Embassies, 6
multilateral missions and 12 Consulates General and other offices) overseas. A full list of these is
attached in Annex III.
In addition to Irish Missions, there are also 23 Honorary Consuls General and 63 Honorary
Consuls who provide assistance to Irish citizens in 58 countries (see Annex III for Details).
The role of bilateral Embassies is to:
• represent Ireland’s interests in the country or countries to which they are accredited;
• act as a channel of communication with the governments to which they are accredited;
• monitor and report to the Department of Foreign Affairs on political, economic and other
developments of interest to Ireland;
in their countries of accreditation;
• seek to influence Government policy and public opinion in their countries of accreditation in
a manner favourable to Irish interests;
• promote Ireland’s economic interests by encouraging tourism and inward investment to
Ireland and assisting Irish exporters;
• provide consular assistance to Irish citizens;
• issue passports to Irish citizens and visas to foreign nationals wishing to travel to Ireland
subject to the consent of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform;
• disseminate information on Ireland to the media and the public;
• develop cultural and other friendly relations between Ireland and their countries of
accreditation; and
• supervise the implementation of Ireland’s Bilateral Aid Programme.
The role of Consulates General is to:
• provide consular assistance to Irish citizens;

• issue passports to Irish citizens and visas to foreign nationals wishing to travel to Ireland
subject to the consent of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform;
• in the case of the Consulates General in the United States, assist the Embassy in Washington
to promote economic, commercial and cultural relations between Ireland and the U.S., and
• in the case of the Consulate General in Lesotho, supervise the implementation of Ireland’s
Bilateral Aid Programme in that country.
The role of multilateral Missions is to protect and promote Ireland’s interests in the international
body or organisation to which they are accredited.
44
Reports and advice are provided to the Headquarters of the Department of Foreign Affairs and to
other Government Departments as appropriate. Support is provided to the President and members
of the Government on State or official visits. Assistance is provided to State agencies and private
companies to promote Ireland’s international economic interests. Support is provided to local Irish
communities. Service is provided directly to Irish citizens who require passport or consular
services. Information on Ireland is provided to official and non-governmental organisations, to the
media and to individuals in the country or countries of accreditation.
Information on the activities of Irish Missions may be obtained by contacting the relevant Mission
directly. The addresses, telephone and fax numbers of Irish Missions are given in Appendix III.
5.13.4 Classes of Records Held by Irish Missions
Personnel files relating to staff recruited locally.

Personal Information relating to:
• Dublin-based staff assigned to the Mission
• persons who have requested passport or consular services
• persons with whom the Embassy deals in relation to policy or administrative matters.
Policy or Administrative files relating to:

• the establishment and operation of the Mission.
In the case of bilateral Missions, files relating to:

• the country or countries to which the Mission is accredited
• reports to the Headquarters of the Department
• State and Ministerial visits to or from the country or countries of accreditation.
In the case of multilateral Missions, files relating to:

• the business of the international body or organisation to which the Mission is accredited.
45
Section 16 Reference Book
46
May, 2006
CONTENTS SECTION 16
6. INTRODUCTION
7.2 Recruitment of local chancery staff to Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions
overseas

10.1 Introduction
10.2 Where to apply
10.4 Eligibility
10.5 How to apply

47
12 PROVISION OF VISA SERVICES
12.1 Issuing visas

13.1 Irish Aid Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations
13.4 Emergency Preparedness and Post-emergency Rehabilitation Fund
13.6 Civil Society Fund (CSF)
13.7 Micro Projects Scheme
13.10 Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia (PPECA)

COOPERATION, RECONCILIATION AND UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE
DIFFERENT TRADITIONS IN IRELAND

48
6. INTRODUCTION
Under Section 16 of the Freedom of Information Acts, 1997 and 2003, the Department of Foreign
Affairs is required to publish a manual containing:
• the rules, procedures, practices, guidelines and interpretations and an index of any precedents
kept for the purposes of decisions, determinations or recommendations under any enactment or
scheme administered by the Department with respect to rights, privileges, benefits, obligations,
penalties or other sanctions to which members of the public are or may be entitled or subject to
under the enactment or scheme
• information in relation to the manner or intended manner of administration of any such
enactment or scheme.
This reference book provides a guide to the rules and practices under which this Department makes
decisions that affect the rights, privileges, benefits, etc. of members of the public, so that citizens
can make an informed judgement as to whether their entitlements have been accorded to them in
full. Where the rules or guidelines governing a scheme or entitlement are not outlined in full in this
reference book, information is provided as to where such rules, guidelines, etc. can be accessed for
inspection by members of the public.
Information is provided in this reference book in relation to the following schemes, which affect
members of the public, operated by the Department of Foreign Affairs:
• disbursement of Bilateral Aid to voluntary groups;
• supporting irish Emigrant Groups
49
7. Recruitment and Employment of Staff

All full-time posts in the Department of Foreign Affairs, with certain exceptions indicated below,
are filled by permanent Civil Servants who are recruited through the Public Appointments Service,
which is the central recruiting body for the whole of the civil service. Recruitment is through a
series of competitions organised by the Public Appointments Service and which are advertised in
the national press. Competitions generally involve an initial written examination, followed by a
competitive interview. Arising from this process, panels of successful candidates are then drawn
up and assigned, in order of merit, to vacancies as they arise in Departments throughout the civil
service. It should be noted that there is no guarantee of assignment to the Department of Foreign
Affairs except in the case of vacancies at Third Secretary level which is a grade specific to this
Department. The Department of Foreign Affairs currently inform the Public Appointments Service
of vacancies existing and request the Public Appointments Service to assign candidates from the
appropriate panels to fill them.
The recruitment of contract staff – Development Specialists (DS), Senior DS and Principal DS –
for the Irish Aid programme is now also handled in the same manner by the Public Appointments
Commission.
The Department of Foreign Affairs also organises its own separate competitions to recruit
personnel to the positions of Services Officer, Cleaner and Temporary Clerical Officer. Any
vacancies in such positions are advertised through FÁS and the National Rehabilitation Board.
Members of the public may also apply individually to the Department in connection with these
positions but any persons doing so will be requested subsequently to register with FÁS. Vacancies
in these positions are filled through competitive interview following which a panel will be
established from which successful candidates will be called by the Department in order of merit,
and as vacancies arise.
The Department of Foreign Affairs also offers a limited number of stagiaire positions each year to
recently qualified law graduates. These positions are advertised through the universities and in the
national press. Persons recruited to these paid positions serve for a period of twelve months in the
Department’s Legal Division or Human Rights Unit (Political Division).
7.2 Recruitment of Local Chancery Staff to Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions
Overseas
Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions overseas have delegated authority to recruit administrative
and support staff locally as the need arises, subject to agreed staff numbers at each Mission, which
cannot be exceeded. Recruitment to local staff posts does not involve entry to the permanent Irish
civil service and the employees are classed as Temporary Unestablished State Employees.
Recruitment is based on the needs of the individual Mission and takes account of local recruitment
and employment norms. While the precise procedure may vary slightly from post to post to take
account of local employment law and norms, generally, the process would involve an open
advertisement of the vacancy, followed by an initial screening of written applications received and
a competitive interview of suitable candidates. The terms of employment for local staff
employees are not those applicable to permanent civil servants, but are instead a matter of contract
between the Mission and the employees. Contracts take account of local as well as Irish
employment regulations and norms.
50
Financial provision is made for the employment, by individual Ambassadors, of domestic staff at
official residences abroad. This is for the purpose of maintaining each residence as a suitable venue
for the Ambassador and Embassy to offer official hospitality on behalf of the State. Subject to
agreed numbers in each case, the recruitment and employment process is delegated to the
Ambassador based on his or her assessment of how best the Embassy residence should be run as an
official building.
7.3 RECRUITMENT OF ELECTION MONITORS FOR THIRD COUNTRIES

From time to time, the Department recruits experts to monitor elections in third countries.
Provision is made under the Department’s International Cooperation budget to fund these
missions. Part of the cost of sending monitors may also be met by the EU or international
organisations. Election monitors are selected according to previous experience of election
processes, developmental experience and general suitability. Applicants are interviewed and a pre-
departure training course is given. Details are provided on the Irish Aid website: www.irish
aid.gov.ie. Further information is also available from (01) 408 2744.
7.4 STAFF REGULATIONS

All staff recruited by the Department of Foreign Affairs, either directly or indirectly, are subject to
the civil service personnel code and the internal staff regulations of the Department. The civil
service personnel code is outlined in the Section 16 Reference Book produced by the Department
of Finance, copies of which are available from the FOI Unit in that Department, telephone:(01)
676 7571.
The internal staff regulations are described and set out in internal circulars and office notices
issued periodically to all staff within the Department of Foreign Affairs. Further information on the
Department’s staff regulations may be obtained by contacting the Management Services Section,
telephone: (01) 408 2123.

The Department of Foreign Affairs adheres to the general procedures which are prescribed for all
Government Departments in relation to public tendering and the procurement of goods and
services.
Copies of the relevant guidelines and directives which set out the principles and procedures to be
observed by public bodies can be found at www.etenders.gov.ie
51
9.1 USE OF CONSULTANTS BY THE DEPARTMENT
Consultants may be employed on a contract basis in circumstances where a specific skill or

expertise is required which is not available in the Department.
The Department of Foreign Affairs conforms to the general rules and guidelines governing the use
of consultants by Government departments, including the rules on Public Procurement and relevant
EU Directives. These rules and guidelines are contained in a publication entitled “Engaging
Management Consultants - A Code of Practice for the Civil Service”, a copy of which may be
obtained from the Votes Control Section in the Department of Finance, telephone: (01)
6045545/604 5544.
Alternatively, copies are also available on the Department of Finance’s website
www.finance.gov.ie
9.2 ENGAGEMENT OF CONSULTANTS UNDER THE IRISH AID PROGRAMME

Consultants are employed on short-term contracts under the Irish Aid Programme to assist with the
review and evaluation of existing projects and programmes and the planning, design and
preparation of new projects and programmes. A Register of Consultants was set up in September
1993, following national advertising, comprising people with skills in particular sectors applicable
to the Irish Aid Programme such as primary education, agriculture, engineering, etc. This Register
was re-advertised and updated in 1997 and new applications were added to the register as they
were received. Further information on the Register of Consultants may be obtained by contacting
the Development Cooperation Directorate, telephone: (01) 408 2907.
Projects requiring the use of a consultant are approved at a meeting of the PAEG (Project
Appraisal and Evaluation Group), an interdepartmental committee which approves spending under
the Bilateral Aid Programme. When projects have been approved, Department of Finance
Guidelines and EU regulations are followed in regard to the method of procuring the services of a
consultant (see www.etenders.gov.ie/guides). Depending on the level of expenditure, the method
of procurement will range from preparing short lists of suitable consultants based on the Register
of Consultants with an invitation to tender sent to a minimum of three consultants through to a full
EU Procurement Process. Selection is made by a committee of officers from the Directorate in
accordance with the appropriate procedures as set out in Department of Finance Guidelines and
EU Regulations.
Feedback on the assessment of their tender is given to all candidates.
52
10.1 INTRODUCTION
Irish citizens require a passport for travel to all countries, including European Union member
states, other than the United Kingdom.
10.2 WHERE TO APPLY

In Ireland passports can be applied for through:
• the “Passport Express” service which is now available at over 1,000 Post Offices around the
country displaying An Post’s ServicePlus logo; or
• directly by ordinary post; or
• in person at the Passport Offices in Cork (which caters for people residing in Munster) or
Dublin (which deals with applications from persons residing elsewhere in Ireland); or
• Persons in Northern Ireland may apply through the ‘Passport express’ service which is
available at over 40 post office branches, or also by ordinary post.
Citizens residing outside Ireland should apply to the Irish Embassy or Consulate in with
responsibility for their country of residence.
10.3 DESCRIPTION OF SERVICE
Passports are issued within ten working days in response to properly completed “Passport Express”
and counter applications from persons residing in Ireland. Applications made directly to the Dublin
and Cork offices by ordinary post are processed within 3 or 4 weeks.
The processing time for applications submitted through Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad
varies from mission to mission. The maximum waiting time should not be more than 6 weeks and
in most cases will be much shorter than that.
Where a passport is applied for in a genuine emergency during office hours and proof of travel is
produced, every effort is made to meet the travel date. In addition, the Department of Foreign
Affairs in Dublin has a Duty Officer on call outside normal office hours to deal with urgent
matters, including the issuing of passports of restricted validity. Such passports are issued in
situations of real and genuine emergency only. Duty Officers may be contacted through the
Department’s main telephone number: (01) 478 0822.
A Duty Officer is also available in the Department in Iveagh House, 80 St. Stephen’s Green,
Dublin on Saturdays from 9.00a.m. to 5.00p.m. and on Sundays and public holidays (excluding
Christmas Day and New Year’s Day) from 9.00a.m. to 2.00p.m. to issue new passports to people
requiring them urgently whose previous passports have been mislaid, lost or stolen or because they
find just before travelling that they are out of date. The fee for this service is €100 for adults and
€50 for minors. Under this service a restricted validity emegency passport is issued. Persons must
later reapply for a regular passport to the Passport Office
53
10.4 ELIGIBILITY
Only an Irish citizen may hold an Irish passport. Irish citizenship law is defined in the Irish
Nationality and Citizenship Acts, 1956 to 2004.
The courts have ruled that all citizens have a constitutional right to a passport. However, the right
of a child to travel is subject to the consent of other parties, generally the child’s parents and/or
other guardians and/or the courts. The Department of Foreign Affairs through its Passport Offices
in Ireland and its Embassies and Consulates abroad is therefore obliged to grant passports to every
Irish citizen who applies and submits an application in the prescribed manner except in the
following cases:
• where there exists a Court Order expressly and specifically prohibiting the issuance of a
passport to a particular citizen; or
• where the applicant’s name is recorded on the Department’s stop-list; or
• in the case of minors, where explicit written witnessed consent by all parents, as defined in
the Guardianship of Infants Act, 1964, the Status of Children Act, 1987 and the Children Act,
1997, and legal guardians, or a court order dispensing with such consent, is not produced; or
• where the Minister decides that in the interest of public order and the common good of the
State an applicant should not hold an Irish passport.
The Passport Office maintains a stop-list of individuals to whom, for one reason or another,
passports are not automatically issued.
10.5 HOW TO APPLY
Each applicant for a passport must present:
• a completed application form;

• original documentary proof of Irish citizenship;
• proof of identity;
• two identical photographs;
• the appropriate passport fee;
• the consent of parents or guardians in the case of minors or court orders dispensing with such
consent, and
• any other evidence or affidavits that the issuing office may deem necessary.
Documents presented must be originals or copies certified by the issuing authorities.

Certificates in languages other than Irish or English must be accompanied by certified translations.
10.5.1 Passport Application Forms
The APS 1 application form is for the use of applicants resident in the State. The APS2 form is for
the use of applicants resident outside the State.
54
10.5.2 Form of Name
A passport is issued in the name by which the person is normally known. If this differs from the
version entered on the birth certificate they are required to produce evidence of usage of the name
for at least 2 years eg tax documents, bank statements, drivers licence, school reports etc. Two
examples of these would be required. A deed poll may also be required.
A passport may be issued in the married name of the applicant on production of a civil marriage
certificate or evidence of intention to marry, such as a letter from the registrar or clergyman.
10.5.3 Citizenship Documentation
Details of the documentation required are contained in the Explanatory Notes attached to the
passport application form.
10.5.4 Certification of Application Forms
Applicants in the State must have their application form and the reverse of their photographs
witnessed and certified by a Garda officer, normally at their local Garda Station. The Garda should
be satisfied as to the applicant’s identity.
Applicants outside the State must have their application form and the reverse of their photographs
witnessed and certified by one of the persons listed (who must not be a relative). The person
certifying must either know the applicant personally or be introduced to the applicant by a third
party personally known to her/him.
In all cases [other than children too young to sign or adults unable to sign] the applicant must sign
Section 8 of the form (declaration by applicant) in the presence of the person completing the
certificate of identity at Section 9 of the application form.
Passport application forms must be lodged within 6 months of the date on which the declaration
was witnessed; otherwise a fresh form must be completed.
10.5.5 Photographs
The two photographs submitted should be of an acceptable type, not more than 6 months old,
35mm x 45mm in size and preferably full front view of head and shoulders without head covering
or tinted glasses. If applicants wear ordinary non-tinted glasses as a matter of course, photographs
showing these may be accepted.
Preferably the background in the photographs should be clear. If the photographs are not of a
reasonably high quality they will be rejected.
Passport photographs should not show a military or police uniform.
10.5.6 Fees
The fees for granting passport facilities are fixed by statutory instrument. In the case of postal
applications passport fees should be paid by cheque, postal order, money order or bank draft which
should be crossed and made payable to the relevant Passport Office or Embassy. Payments for
“Passport Express” applications made at participating Post Offices in the State should be made to
An Post. Applicants in Northern Ireland using the Passport Express service there pay the passport
fee, along with the post office handling charge, at the post office.
For applications made to the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork fees may be paid in euro.
Payment may be made as in the case of postal applications or by credit or debit card. At Embassies
and Consulates abroad fees should be paid in the local currencies.
55
10.5.7 Consent of Parents or Guardians
The consent of parents/guardians is required for the issue of a passport to a minor, ie a person
under 18 years of age, unless married.
Consent is valid for the life of the passport applied for, i.e. either 3 or 5 years, even if the passport
is initially issued for a shorter period, unless the contrary is stated in writing by the parent or
guardian.
The procedures to be followed when the consent of one or both parents/guardians is not available
are outlined in the explanatory leaflet attached to the passport application form.
10.5.8 Affidavits
In certain circumstances, applicants will be required to provide affidavits which must be sworn
before a Commissioner for Oaths. Copies of the respective affidavit forms are available from the
Passport Offices and from Embassies and Consulates abroad. These are also available on the
Passport Office website www.passport.ie.
10.5.9 Statement on Loss of a Passport
When a passport has been lost or stolen the ‘Statement of Loss’ section of the passport application
form should be completed, witnessed at a Garda/Police Station and submitted with the application
for a new passport.
The statement of loss should be a detailed explanation of what happened to the missing passport.
10.5.10 Incomplete Applications
Incomplete applications are returned to applicants with a full explanation of the documentation
required to enable a passport to be issued.
10.6 TYPES OF PASSPORTS
Passports are issued based upon the age of the applicant.
• Infants up to age 3 are issued with a 3 year passport.
• Children aged 3 to 17 are issued with a 5 year passport.
• Adults aged 18 and upwards are issued with a 10 year passport.
Details of passport fees are contained in the Explanatory Notes attached to the passport application
form. These are also available on the passport office website.
To facilitate frequent business travellers in areas where visas are required, the Passport Office, in
exceptional cases, will consider requests for second (business) passports on the basis of detailed
written explanations from employing firms as to why they are needed.
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10.6.1 Collective Passports
Collective passports, which are valid for three months for one return journey out of Ireland, are
issued only by the Passport Office, Dublin to:
(a) organised groups of people under 21 years of age travelling for educational, cultural or
pilgrimage purposes to the following countries which are parties to the European Agreement on
Travel by Young Persons on Collective Passports: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France,
Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the USA.
(b) invalid pilgrims travelling to Lourdes, with no age limit, subject to a certificate from a doctor
that all are invalids.
Groups must have leaders who are at least 21 years of age and who hold individual valid Irish
passports. Leaders must carry the collective passports - comprising single sheets containing the
names of group members and a travel card issued to each individual member - and be responsible
for dealing with immigration controls on behalf of groups. Leaders must stay with groups and
ensure that they remain together.
10.6.2 Emergency Passports

Previously known as Emergency Travel Certificates (ETC), Emergency Passports are intended for
a single journey to the bearer’s country of permanent residence. They are normally issued only by
Embassies and Consulates abroad.
10.7 RULES, PRODECURES, PRACTICES, GUIDELINES AND INTERPRETATIONS
A Consular Instructions manual outlining the internal rules, procedures, practices, guidelines,
interpretations and precedents under which the Passport Offices operate is available from the Passport
Office, Dublin on request. The manual contains sections dealing with the legal aspects of the granting
of passports, passports for minors, names that may be put in passports, the procedures for dealing with
lost/stolen passports and the issuing of emergency passports. It also deals with citizenship matters.
The reference book contains copies of the following documents:
• guidelines on passport facilities for children;
• list of sample cases involving minors;
• guidelines for Duty Officers;
• non-statutory consolidation of legal texts;
• extracts from important court decisions;
• staff circulars relating to procedures;
10.7.1 Index of Precedent Cases

The manual also contains details of precedents for the following situations by which the Passport
Offices are guided as well as by the legislation, guidelines, procedures and court decisions
mentioned above, when considering applications:
1. Need to obtain a court order dispensing with the consent of a guardian who is incapable, for
medical reasons, of giving consent to the issue of a passport to his/her minor child.
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2. Dispensing with consent in separation or guardianship agreements or in orders issued pursuant
to the Judicial Separation and Family Law Act, 1989.
3. Recognising foreign divorces; guardianship of minor children of second marriages.
4. Not the function of the Passport Office to “look behind” court orders validly issued.
5. Need to have the authority of the President of the High Court to grant passport facilities to
minors who have been made Wards of Court.
6. Children committed to the care of Health Boards outside the jurisdiction.
7. Passport facilities for citizens residing outside the jurisdiction who are the subject of court
proceedings which require that they not leave that country.
8. Passports for citizens who have undergone gender reassignment surgery.
10.8 FURTHER INFORMATION
Further information is available from the Passport Office website www.passport.ie or from your
nearest Embassy or Consulate (see Appendix III)
E-mail enquiries may be made to passportdublin@dfa.ie and passportcork@dfa.ie
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The Department’s Consular Section and Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad provide a range of
services relating to the consular protection of Irish citizens visiting or resident in other countries.
They also make available a number of other consular services and services relating to Irish
citizenship.
Entitlement
Irish citizens in Ireland or in another country (provided they are not also citizens of that country)
are entitled to consular services for themselves or their relatives on request to the Consular Section
of the Department or to an Irish Embassy or Consulate abroad. There are statutory charges for
some of the services, for example €45 for transferring funds abroad or for repatriations.
11.1 CONSULAR PROTECTION OF IRISH CITIZENS
Irish citizens who are not also citizens of the foreign country concerned are entitled to the consular
protection of the Irish Government. The principal consular services provided are:
• assistance in connection with deaths abroad

• assistance to victims of serious accidents or illnesses
• assistance to victims of crime
• assistance to people arrested, detained or imprisoned
• transferring funds to Irish citizens abroad
• repatriation of Irish citizens in distress.
Assistance in connection with deaths abroad
In the case of the death of an Irish citizen abroad, relatives in Ireland will be informed by the Garda
Síochána. If necessary in such cases, the Department, on the basis of information from the relevant
Embassy or Consulate, will assist relatives in deciding whether to arrange a funeral where the death
occurs or to transfer the remains home to Ireland. On request, the Department will get estimates
from undertakers and put the relatives or an undertaker in Ireland in contact with a reputable
undertaker in the country concerned. The Embassy or Consulate will also advise the family or
undertaker about Irish requirements with regard to remains being transported to Ireland. It can also
help in having autopsies done, in requesting that inquests be held and/or in obtaining a death
certificate in the country concerned. If necessary, an Embassy or Consulate can assist relatives in
Ireland in recovering personal effects of people who die abroad and/or in getting information about
the estates of deceased Irish citizens.
Assistance to victims of serious accidents or illnesses
The relevant Embassy or Consulate, particularly in countries where English is not spoken, will
give practical assistance to citizens involved in serious accidents or suffering from serious
illnesses. It will liaise with doctors and hospitals and, through the Department, with relatives in
Ireland. If necessary, in consultation with medical authorities, it will arrange or assist relatives to
arrange the evacuation to Ireland of injured or ill people.
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Assistance to victims of crime
Victims of crime may be assisted as necessary in reporting to the police and in getting medical
treatment and legal advice.
Assistance to people arrested, detained or imprisoned
Irish citizens arrested or detained abroad will be contacted and, if they wish, visited by the relevant
Embassy or Consulate. The Embassy or Consulate will satisfy itself regarding the circumstances of
the arrest or detention and the safeguarding of the Irish citizen’s human and legal rights. It will
ensure that the person arrested or detained has the services of a lawyer, that, if desired, he/she can
communicate with relatives and friends and that he/she can avail of any offer of bail. When Irish
citizens are sentenced to terms in prison, the Embassy or Consulate will seek to ensure that the
living conditions are as humane as possible and that they can communicate with relatives, friends
and lawyers. It is the Department’s policy that prisoners be visited at least once a year.
Transferring funds to Irish citizens abroad
Where Irish people travelling abroad urgently need money and it is not possible for relatives or
friends to send it to them through commercial channels, an Embassy or Consulate will pay the
equivalent of an amount lodged with a Garda Station or with the Department in Dublin. A fee of
€35 is charged for this service.
Repatriation of Irish citizens in distress
Irish citizens abroad who are destitute may ask an Embassy or Consulate to repatriate them, and
any minor children accompanying them, at State expense. The Department, if satisfied as to the
circumstances (including the non-availability of financial assistance from relatives or friends in
Ireland), will authorise repatriation on the basis that the expenditure will be refunded in due course
and that in the meantime passport facilities will not be available to the persons concerned.
Further information
Further information about the services mentioned in the paragraphs above under the heading
Consular protection of Irish citizens is available in Part 4 of the Department’s “Consular
Instructions” for Embassies and Consulates or from the Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408
2302 or (01) 408 2308.
11.2 CONSULAR PROTECTION OF EU CITIZENS
Article 8 (c) of the Treaty establishing the European Community, as amended by the Treaty on
European Union signed in Maastricht, states that “Every citizen of the Union shall, in the territory
of a third country in which the Member State of which he is a national is not represented, be entitled to
protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of any Member State, on the same conditions as
the nationals of that State.”
In 1995, the Governments of the EU Member States decided on measures to give effect to this right
of consular protection. An EU citizen in distress and requiring consular protection in a country
outside the EU where there is no accessible Embassy or Consulate of his/her own country, may
request protection from an Embassy or Consulate of any other Member State which will give:
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• assistance in cases of death, serious accident or serious illness
• assistance in cases of arrest or detention
• assistance to victims of violent crime, and
• if necessary, relief or repatriation.
The Embassy or Consulate concerned will communicate with the Foreign Ministry of the EU
citizen’s own country.
11.3 OTHER CONSULAR SERVICES
Other services of a consular nature provided to Irish citizens are:

• advising intending travellers about conditions in particular countries
• assistance in cases of disputed custody of children
• following up inquiries about the welfare or whereabouts of Irish citizens abroad
• authenticating and legalising signatures on documents
• administering oaths, taking affidavits and doing notarial acts, and
• issuing certificates of freedom to marry abroad.
Advising intending travellers about conditions in particular countries
The Department will pass on to intending travellers information it receives from an Irish Embassy
or Consulate, from one or more of our EU partners or from any other reliable source about risks to
health or life (due to civil disorder, outbreaks of infectious diseases or natural disasters) in
particular countries. This information, which can change from day to day, is obtainable by
telephoning (01) 408 2833.
Assistance in cases of disputed custody of children
Although the issues in such cases are determined primarily by the law and the courts in Ireland and
abroad, the Department, Embassies and Consulates will try to respond positively to requests from Irish
spouses for assistance when marriages between Irish citizens and foreign nationals break down and
the custody of children is in dispute. In these situations the Department’s main concern is the welfare
of the children who are Irish citizens. Irish spouses who contact the Department will be given
information on the legal situation and on some of the practical options available to them but they will
always be strongly advised to consult lawyers. Embassies and Consulates will assist in selecting
suitable lawyers. If necessary, they will also help Irish spouses in their dealings with the courts and
other authorities in countries which are not English-speaking. Further information is available from
the Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408 2320.
Inquiries about the welfare or whereabouts of Irish citizens abroad
The Department, Embassies and Consulates will assist in making inquiries about the welfare or
whereabouts of Irish people abroad when such inquiries are based on genuine humanitarian
concerns of inquirers with identifiably close relationships with such people and provided their
privacy is protected. Further information is available from the Consular Section, telephone: (01)
408 2876
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Authenticating and legalising signatures on documents
The Department will facilitate the acceptance in foreign countries of public documents executed in Ireland
by authenticating the seals or signatures of officials of a number of authorities in Ireland (e.g. Supreme
Court Office, other Government Departments, General Register Office) and affixing Apostilles under the
1961 Hague Convention. There is a statutory fee of €20 for an Apostille, €15 for other authentication or
€10 (if the document relates to merchandise exports) for this service. Further information is available
from the Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408 2174.
Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad will certify the genuineness of (i.e. legalise) signatures on
foreign documents for production in Ireland. There is a statutory charge of €15 for this service.
Administering oaths, taking affidavits and doing notarial acts
Officials of Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad are empowered by the Diplomatic and
Consular Officers (Provision of Services) Act, 1993 to administer oaths, take affidavits and do any
notarial act which a notary public in Ireland can do. Further information is available from the
Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408 2374.
Issuing certificates of freedom to marry abroad

Irish citizens resident in Ireland intending to get married in certain foreign countries, including
most continental European countries, and who have to produce certificates of freedom to marry
(certificates de coutume) in that connection, may obtain these certificates from the Consular
Section of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Irish citizens resident in other countries may obtain
such certificates from an Irish Embassy or Consulate. The applicant must make a statutory
declaration and complete a questionnaire, both on standard forms, and pay a statutory fee of €20.
Further information is available from the Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408 2568.
11.4 SERVICES RELATING TO IRISH CITIZENSHIP
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Acts, 1956 to 2004 are administered by the Department of
Justice, Equality and Law Reform but the Department of Foreign Affairs and Embassies and
Consulates abroad have functions with regard to:
• the processing of applications for Irish citizenship by Foreign Births Registration (Section
27 of the 1956 Act);
• the lodgement of declarations by foreign spouses of Irish citizens accepting Irish citizenship
as their post-nuptial citizenship (Section 8 of the 1956 Act as amended by Section 3 of the
1986 Act and Section 4 of the 2001 Act)
• the annual lodgement of declarations of intention to retain Irish citizenship by naturalised
Irish citizens living abroad (Section 19(1)(c) of the 1956 Act), and
• the lodgement of declarations of alienage (Section 21 of the 1956 Act as amended by Section
7 of the 1986 Act).
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Foreign Births Registration
A person born outside Ireland who at the time of his/her birth had a parent who was an Irish citizen
otherwise than by birth in Ireland may become an Irish citizen by application for “foreign births
registration” at an Irish Embassy or Consulate in the country where he/she normally resides or at the
Department of Foreign Affairs if living in Ireland. Application is made by presenting a standard form,
two passport-sized photographs and a statutory fee of €125 (if over 18) or €40 (if under 18). Certified
copies of entries in a Foreign Births Entry Book at an Embassy or Consulate or in the Foreign Births
Register at the Department may be obtained on payment of a statutory fee of €2.50. Where registration
is being sought on the basis of a grandparent born in Ireland, documentary evidence of descent (birth,
marriage and death certificates) is required. Further information is available from the Consular
Post-nuptial citizenship
A spouse of an Irish citizen by birth in Ireland or descent from a person born in Ireland is entitled
to apply to become an Irish citizen from the third anniversary of the marriage onwards provided
the marriage still subsists and the couple are living together. Application is done by the non-Irish
spouse making, in a prescribed form, a declaration of acceptance of Irish citizenship as post-
nuptial citizenship and by the Irish spouse swearing an affidavit that they are living together as
husband and wife. These forms, along with three passport-sized photographs of each spouse and
supporting documentary evidence, may be lodged with an Irish Embassy or Consulate by couples
residing abroad or direct with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform by couples
residing in Ireland. A statutory fee of €126.97 is paid direct to that Department in all cases. Close
checks are made to eliminate fraudulent applications. In accordance with section 5 of the Irish
Nationality and Citizenship Act, 2001, from 30 November, 2005 the conditions to be fulfilled by
an applicant for Irish citizenship through marriage to an Irish citizen will include that he/she will
have had, at the time of the application, a period of one year’s continuous residence in the island of
Ireland and, during the four years immediately preceding that period, a total residence in the island
amounting to two years. All applications will then be made direct to the Department of Justice,
Equality and Law Reform.
Declarations of intention to retain Irish citizenship
Naturalised Irish citizens residing outside Ireland should register annually in a prescribed form
their names and declarations of their intention to retain Irish citizenship with an Irish Embassy or
Consulate or direct with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in Dublin.
Under Section 19(1)(c) of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956 the Minister may revoke
a certificate of naturalisation if he/she is satisfied that the person to whom it is granted has been
resident outside Ireland for a continuous period of seven years and during that period has not so
registered annually.
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Declarations of alienage
An Irish citizen of full age about to become a citizen of another country who for that reason wishes
to renounce his/her Irish citizenship may do so if resident outside Ireland by lodging, direct or
through an Irish Embassy or Consulate, a “declaration of alienage” with the Minister for Justice,
Further information
Services relating to Irish citizenship is available in Part 2 of the Department’s “Consular
2320.
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within the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and this agency is responsible for
processing all visa applications made within Ireland . The public office is located at 13/14 Burgh
Quay, Dublin 2. See www.justice.ie for other contact details.
12.1 ISSUING VISAS
The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has responsibility for immigration policy and
requires nationals of certain countries to have visas before coming or returning to Ireland.
Embassies and Consulates abroad accept and check applications presented on the standard
application form associated with which are detailed information and instructions. The completed
form should be accompanied by passports, the relevant supporting documentary evidence, three
passport-sized photographs and the relevant fee. In certain cases, a communication fee may also
be charged.
Embassies have “delegated sanction” to take decisions on applications from certain categories of
people such as Government officials, diplomats, business people, clergy, people prominent in the
artistic, medical, scientific or academic fields, highly-skilled applicants for working visas, holders
of work permits or prospective employees coming to Ireland for interviews. Other applications are
referred to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform for decision.
Visa fees are waived in the case of spouses and dependants of Irish and other E.U. nationals.
Otherwise they may be waived only where visas are issued:
• for and at the request of any official or public authority
• for or on behalf of a person who is in straitened circumstances or where the levying of a fee
would for other reasons constitute a serious hardship, or
• for official purposes or for reasons of public policy.
Forms and further information are available from Embassies or Consulates or from the Visa
Office, 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2. or from www.justice.ie or www.dfa.ie
12.2 WORKING IN IRELAND
Nationals of country which are not a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and wish to
work in Ireland, require authorisation to do so. For most types of employment, a non-EEA
national requires a Work Permit. Full information on work is available from the Department of
Enterprise, Trade and Employment’s website http://www.entemp.ie/labour/workpermits/ or by
telephone at 01 6313333 or LoCall: 1890 201 616.
Please note that only an employer can apply for a work permit on behalf of a prospective
employee.
Upon receipt of a work permit, a visa-required national can apply with his/her Work Permit for an
"Employment" visa through their local Irish Embassy or Consulate.
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12.3 WORKING VISA AND WORK AUTHORISATION
The growth of the Irish economy in recent years is resulting in shortages of skilled employees in
some sectors such as information and computing technologies, construction professionals and
across a broad range of medical, health and social care professions (including Medical
Practitioners, nurses, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, radiographers,
physiotherapists, social workers).
To facilitate the recruitment of suitably qualified people from non-EEA countries for designated
sectors (see below for list of sectors) of the employment market where skill shortages are
particularly acute, a Working Visa and Work Authorisation scheme has been introduced. This
makes it possible for prospective employees with job offers from employers in Ireland to obtain
immigration and employment clearance in advance from Irish Embassies and Consulates. (The
issue of a Working Visa or Work Authorisation does not give the holder an automatic right to enter
Ireland as Immigration Officers retain discretion in specified circumstances to refuse entry to any
non-national.)
Applications for Working Visas and Work Authorisations are accepted from persons outside the
country only. Applications must normally be made through the Irish Embassy/Consulate in the
applicant's country of permanent residence and applicants may be required to attend for personal
interview.
Working Visa
A visa-required national, i.e. the holder of the passport of a country which requires a visa to enter
Ireland, who has an offer from an employer in Ireland of employment in one of the designated sectors
may be given a Working Visa by an Irish Embassy/Consulate.
Work Authorisation
The holder of the passport of a country who does not require a visa ot enter Ireland, who has an
offer from an employer in Ireland of employment in one of the designated sectors, may be given a
Work Authorisation by an Irish Embassy or Consulate.
Periods of validity
A Working Visa or Work Authorisation is usually valid for two years - three months in the case of
a Candidate Nurses.
An information leaflet on Working Visas and Work Authorisations together with the relevant
application forms can be found on the Department’s website www.dfa.ie and are also availabel
from irsh Embassies and Consulates. The website will also proivde a list of countries whose
passport holders do not require visas to enter ireland.
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12.4 Skills Categories currently covered by the Work Visa and Work Authorisation Schemes
At present the designated categories are:
Information and Computing Professionals

• Information and computing technologies professionals
• Information and computing technologies technicians
Construction Professionals
• Architects, including architectural technicians/technologists
• Construction engineers, including engineering technicians
• Quantity surveyors and Building surveyors
• Town planners;
Medical Professionals
• Medical Practitioners
• Registered Nurses
• Dentists, and
• the following specified professionals in the Public Health and Social Care sectors, including
voluntary bodies:
Diagnostic or Therapeutic Radiographer Audiologist

Dietician Social Worker
Occupational Therapist Medical Scientist
Orthoptist Physiotherapist
Medical Physicist Hospital Pharmacist
Psychologist ECG Technician
Speech and Language Therapist Neuropsychological Measurement Technician
Biochemist Cardiac Catheterisation Technician
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13.1. Irish Aid Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations
It has been the policy of successive Irish Governments to work closely with Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations, and in particular with the Irish-based NGOs,
many of whom have a long and distinguished record in providing development and emergency
assistance. The partnership between Irish Aid and NGOs is intended to benefit the NGOs and
their southern partners, through financial support.
The partnership recognises the close contacts which many NGOs have with local communities and
the potential that this creates for reaching poor women and men and enabling them to participate in
development and associated public policy processes. Funding mechanisms are designed in a way
that deepen the partnership between Irish Aid, Irish-based NGOs and southern civil society.
This section outlines the arrangements that apply to funding by Irish Aid of development
programmes and projects implemented by NGOs and civil society organisations.
The flapship programme of the Civil Society Section, Irish Aid, is the Multi-annual Programme
Scheme (MAPS) which channels in the region of €50million per annum to Christian Aid, Concern,
GOAL, Self Help Development International and Trócaire. This scheme provides multi-annual
funding for programmatic interventions; it facilitates partnership with southern civil society and
encourages local ownership of development processes.
Participation of organisations in MAPS is by invitation; organisations are invited to submit

proposals for funding. The guidelines for this scheme have been redesigned, based on the
recommendations of an evaluation carried out in 2005. These are currently available on the Irish
Aid’s website – www.irishaid.gov.ie.
In addition, Civil Society Section has responsibility for certain programmes previously managed
by the Agency for Personal Service Overseas (APSO). These include Personnel Funding. The
Section also manages the grant to the Irish Missionary Resource Service Challenge Fund and the
Partnership Fund, which promotes new and innovative links between civil society in Ireland and
the developing world.
A process of rationalising a number of schemes. managed by Civil Society Section, has recently
been completed following consultation with non-governmental organisations. The new Civil
Society Fund (CSF) replaces the different schemes with a single one with different categories. The
CSF simplifies the administration within Civil Society Section and provides a better overview of
the support given to organisations. The new mechanism is now in place and details are available
on the Irish Aid website.
Development Criteria
The following developmental criteria apply in the appraisal of funding applications submitted to
Irish Aid. These criteria are reflected in the questions asked and information sought from
applicants. The intention is to ensure the best possible use of available resources:
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• Reaching the poor: Preference will be given to applications where the intended beneficiaries
are the poor in the location and country in which the project takes place. Project applications
should indicate the measures to be taken to ensure that the poor will benefit. Attention will
also be given to the number of persons expected to benefit and the sustainability of the
interventions.
• Levels of participation: Experience has shown that the likelihood of success is greater if
intended beneficiaries are actively involved in determining their own development.
Therefore, Irish Aid would like to see beneficiaries involved in the initial project idea and in
selecting options and to see evidence of on-going involvement incorporated in all phases of
the project. The beneficiaries “must be in the driving seat”.
• Reaching men and women: Irish Aid is concerned that its development assistance should
reach both women and men in the target community. The appraisal of project proposals
focuses on the extent to which both are involved in the planning, decision-making and
implementation processes and in the benefits. Since women and men have different roles in
society, it is likely that special measures will be necessary to involve women. Projects will be
appraised on the extent to which they address this issue.
• Relevance: The problem to be solved by the project should be consistent with local, regional
and/or national development goals.
• Efficiency: Irish Aid is concerned with achieving the best possible results at least cost and
examines applications in terms of the proposed set up, approach and methods to be used, as
well as actual costs. The means adopted to achieve objectives must be cost effective.
• Effectiveness: Irish Aid assesses applications in terms of their demonstrated potential to

bring lasting benefits to intended beneficiaries and are particularly concerned with the
manner in which the project has been planned, the feasibility and coherence of what is
proposed, procedures for monitoring, and the extent to which possible difficulties have been
anticipated.
• Sustainability: Particular attention is given to the feasibility of the project activities and/or
its benefits being continued after grant aid has been used. This will include examining the
extent to which skills and knowledge of local people will be used, the appropriateness of
technology, possible environmental effects and measures taken to protect and enhance the
environment, the issue of ‘ownership’ of project activities, the level of skill which exists or
will be developed, and the potential for cost recovery and maintenance within the community
concerned, local institutional structures and/or government. The long-term impact on the
beneficiaries is a key issue.
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Irish Aid partnership with NGOs is managed through a range of programmes administered by the
Department of Foreign Affairs. A summary of these programmes is outlined below. Application
forms and guidelines for each programme are available and describe in more detail how and where
to apply for assistance. Copies of these guidelines may be obtained on the website at
www.irishaid.gov.ie or by contacting the Information Section in the Development Cooperation
Directorate, telephone: (01) 408 2423.
Programme and Objectives:
Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Fund

The objective is to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain human dignity during and in the
aftermath of humanitarian crises.
Emergency Preparedness and Post-emergency Rehabilitation Fund (EPPR)

The objective is to assist the most vulnerable people in post-emergency societies to re-establish
their lives and livelihoods, and to support governments to address institutional and human resource
issues with the aim of helping to create conditions that can lead to peaceful, just and inclusive
societies.
Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS)

The objective is to provide a supportive framework of funding that enables organisations and their
partners to work effectively and programmatically in pursuit of poverty focused development
outcomes and impacts.
Civil Society Fund (CSF)

The objective of the CSF is to contribute to the achievement of the Millennium Development
Goals by improving the livelihoods of disadvantaged communities in developing countries.
Micro Projects Scheme

The objective of the scheme is to enable small Irish-based organisations to address the root causes
of poverty in the developing world in a way that is strategic and cost-effective and is consistent
with Irish Aid’s programme.
In-Country Micro Projects Scheme

The objective is to provide support to local micro projects in countries where there are Irish
Embassies or Development Cooperation Offices.
Human Rights and Democratisation Scheme

The objective is to provide assistance in the development of democratic processes and institutions
and in the protection of human rights.
Irish Missionary Resource Service (IMRS)

The objective is to establish a funding mechanism to support missionary development work, which
was formerly supported by APSO. The IMRS was established on 1 July 2004.
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Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia
The objective is to assist people in poverty in countries of the Balkans, the Commonwealth of
Independent States (former Soviet Union) as they undergo the transition to democracy and recover
from the armed conflicts of the 1990s.
Development Education and Other Education Grant Schemes

The objective is to increase the public understanding of the underlying causes of global inequality
and injustice. It also aims to increase public awareness and public ownership of Ireland’s aid
programme.
Irish Aid Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations
The applicant NGO: Irish Aid

1.Information Studies Guidelines Provides clarification if
required
2.Application Submits application form (following Checks each
guidelines) or required information as application for
set out in Guidelines. Supplies completeness and
supporting information relating to the eligibility
organisation itself as necessary e.g. Acknowledges each
audited accounts, plans and budgets. application & returns
ineligible applications
3. Appraisal Provides additional information, if Assesses each
requested. application on
institutional,
environmental and
developmental criteria
4. Decision All applications are
considered by the
Approvals Committee.
5. Notification Notifies all applicants
of the outcome. Sends
contracts to successful
applicants
6. Payment Signs contract and returns it to Irish Issues payment on
Aid receipt of signed
contract
7.Monitoring Submits reports on project Studies reports
and Evaluation implementation as set out in contract. received and selects
Facilitates evaluation by Irish Aid of projects for further
projects during their implementation evaluation or audit.
or following their completion when
requested to do so by Irish Aid
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13.3 EMERGENCY HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE FUND
Objective
Consistent with the principles and practice of Good Humanitarian Donorship, the objective of the
Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Fund is to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain human
dignity during and in the aftermath of humanitarian crises.
Eligible Agencies
• registered charities
• international aid agencies.
Applicant agencies must demonstrate:

• experience and a successful track record in the effective and efficient delivery of emergency
assistance
• that assistance will be allocated impartially and on the basis of need
• that they have the legal authority necessary to operate in the country concerned.
Eligible Countries
All countries classified as developing countries by the Development Assistance Committee of the
OECD. In exceptional circumstances, other countries may also be considered.
Eligible Projects/Activities
Project activities in:
• provision of water, sanitation, health services emergency feeding programmes and other
basic needs to disaster-affected areas
• distribution of emergency supplies
• refugee support activities
• activities proposed for funding should normally have a timescale for implementation of six
months to one year
• the size of the projects supported varies according to the needs of the situation and the
capacity of the organisation making the application.
Eligible Expenditure
• purchase of equipment and materials
• transport and storage costs
• local staff costs
• administration costs not exceeding 10% of total project costs where a strong justification is
provided for this, e.g. the applicant agency must demonstrate that it has invested in high-
quality administrative infrastructure.
Ineligible Expenditure
• international travel
• emergency preparedness or post-emergency rehabilitation projects (see details of separate
scheme).
• Human Rights Democratisation Scheme projects
• insurance costs.
Application Procedure
Subject to operational requirements, funding will be allocated on a needs basis with special
provision made for the urgent consideration of proposals in response to sudden-onset humanitarian
emergencies.
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13.4 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND POST-EMERGENCY
REHABILITATION FUND
Objective
The objective of the Emergency Preparedness and Post-Emergency Recovery Fund is to assist the
most vulnerable people in post-emergency societies to re-establish their lives and livelihoods, and
to support governments to address institutional and human resource issues with the aim of helping
to create conditions that can lead to peaceful, just and inclusive societies.
Eligible Agencies
• international aid agencies
• central and local government authorities of developing countries
• agencies in receipt of MAPS funding (see separate scheme) are not eligible to apply for
EPPR funding.

• that they have the legal authority necessary to operate in the country concerned
• that they have the capacity to plan, execute and evaluate projects to the highest standards of
developmental best practice.
Eligible Countries
OECD. However, this scheme does not normally apply to the Irish Aid priority countries (Lesotho,
Ethiopia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Timor Leste, Uganda, Zambia) and South Africa.
Projects/activities which address:
• capacity building for emergency preparedness
• rehabilitation of physical and institutional infrastructure following major emergencies
(Large scale infrastructure projects will not be considered for funding.)
• activities with a short time-scale for implementation (usually one year, with a possibility of
follow-on funding to a maximum of three years).
• running costs
• training, workshops or seminars directly associated with the implementation of the project,
including local NGO capacity building
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• emergency humanitarian assistance in the case of on-going emergencies (see details of
separate scheme)
Subject to operational requirements, funding will be allocated on the basis of four allocation
exercises each year.
The application should be marked “EPPR” and sent to Emergency and Recovery Unit, Department
of Foreign Affairs, Bishop’s Square, Redmond’s Hill, Dublin 2.
A list of the projects funded from the Emergency Preparedness and Post-Emergency Recovery
Fund each year is published in the Irish Aid Report.
Country-specific Funding
Managed by the Emergency and Recovery Section, Irish Aid also provides funding for a number
of other programmes, including for country programmes in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Palestine. A
programme strategy is in place for Palestine and is in the process of being developed for Sierra
Leone and Liberia. Such strategies, once approved, set out the policy parameters of Irish Aid’s
interventions as well as the identity of partner agencies for these interventions. Application and
allocation criteria are similar to EHAF and EPPR funding mechanims.
New Initatives
Irish Aid is also developing a Rapid Response Initiative, which will enhance Ireland’s response to
humanitarian crisis. The Stability Fund which was launched in 2005 provides support to activities
in the area of conflict including peace building, conflict prevention and conflict mitigation which
fall outside the realm of humanitarian assistance.
Funding to Multi-bilateral Organisations

Irish Aid also supports the work of a number of Multibilateral Organisations, including the
African Capacity Building Foundation which is involved in enhancing public sector performance
and effectiveness in Africa; the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research
(CGIAR), an informal association of research centres, which contributes, through research, to
sustainable agriculture for food security in developing countries; the International Labour
Organisation (ILO) which is concerned with improving the situation of people at work and with
creating greater opportunities for everyone to secure decent employment and income; the
Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) and the International Institute of
Education Planning (IIEP).
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13.5 MULTI ANNUAL PROGRAMME SCHEME (MAPS)
Objective
Partnership Agencies
• Eligible NGOs: The NGOs included in the MAPS were selected by Irish Aid on the basis of
the strategic relevance of their particular focus, capacity, and experience in management of
development programmes.
Eligible Projects
Under the terms of agreements, which have been concluded between Irish Aid and the five
participating NGOs, the Government is providing funding of some €54 million in 2006 to support
the long-term development programmes of those agencies in many of the world’s poorest
countries. The Scheme provides a significant injection of funds to programmes aimed at reducing
poverty, improving availability of and access to education, health, water, sanitation, food and
shelter, and, importantly, strengthening the capacity of people in the developing world to pursue
their human, economic and social rights and to live in peace with justice and dignity.
Eligible Countries
In aggregate, Irish Aid MAPS funding supports programmes in the full range of priority sectors in
a total of some 40 countries.
Size of Grants
The amount to be granted to each participating agency will be determined in accordance with:
- The Government’s overall development cooperation budget and the allocation of funds
between the various strands of the programme.
- An analysis of the overall portfolio of funds of each participating agency, ensuring that Irish
Aid’s contribution is balanced by grants from other institutional donors and/or voluntary
contribution.
- ‘Liquidity ratio’ of 70:30 whereby participating agencies are expected to generate 30% of their
total income in the form of voluntary funds raised in Ireland or demonstrate a capacity to do so
incrementally over the period of MAPS.
- The quality of the programme based on the guidelines set out in this document.
- The efficient use and value for money evident in the programme proposal.
NGOs, which participate in the MAPS, are not eligible for separate Irish Aid assistance under the
Civil Society Fund (CSF) Scheme.
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NGOs participating in the MAPS are responsible for planning, control, follow-up and on-going
monitoring of the programme objectives.
Eligibility of Expenditures
The NGOs are responsible for the adequate and efficient allocation of funds in line with the
programme objectives. MAPS covers the following expenditures:
• Head Office personnel costs associated directly with the formulation and development of the
programme strategy. This can include international travel costs.
• Expenditure related directly to implementation of the programme including support for
capacity building of local partners.
• 6% of the total multi-annual programme allocation can be used in respect of Head Office
costs asociated with the programme.
• Up to 3% of the total multi-annual programme allocation can be used in respect of
expenditure related to organisational development priorities, based on a specific action plan
and linked to programme priorities.
expenditure related to mainstreaming two Irish Aid cross cutting priorities, based on a
specific action plan and linked to programme priorities.
Reporting
Agencies are required to supply concise annual reports on how the MAPS has been used not later
than three months after the end of the year of operation. The reports shall include the following:
Analysis of overall NGO activities, including:
• Statement of the relationship between the fulfilment of general business results and the ones
obtained through the MAPS
• Statement of both general lessons learnt and specific value added through the partnership
relationship.
Report on interventions:
• Description of the outputs resulting from the overall focus of interventions.
• Highlight any significant changes and developments in strategies, approaches etc., and an
update on any changes in the allocations of funds.
• Description of progress of main on-going activities, major deviations from the plans and
specific lessons learnt.
• Finalised interventions should be reported with a summary of the outcomes, results, and
experiences (from the final report of the programme) compared to initial planning. Special
focus should be given to cost-effectiveness, added value, capacity development, exit strategy,
ownership and long-term sustainability.
• Report on NGO contributions to capacity building or other inputs relevant for the
interventions.
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Financial reporting:
• a summary of funds and resources used in each intervention including volunteer posts,
contributions by the NGO, other donors and Irish Aid
• statistical information for use in Irish Aid’s annual report, specifying activity titles and
disbursements per country and sector.
Dialogue and evaluation and audit

Irish Aid will carry out periodic examinations of accounts and financial reports with an
independent audit towards the end of the programme period.
When required, joint meetings or workshops are arranged to discuss issues of relevance for
participants in the MAPS.
Publicity
Participating NGOs are required to show the amount of assistance received from Irish Aid in their
annual reports and should acknowledge Irish Aid support in all publicity material related to the
programme and where appropriate, at the project site.
13.6 CIVIL SOCIETY FUND (CSF)
Objective
Eligible Agencies
• Registered charities based in Ireland
• Irish Aid will invite international NGOs and organisations from developing countries to
apply, based on an assessment of strategic priorities and the quality of an organisation’s
programme.
Eligible Projects
• The CSF is designed to be sufficiently flexible to facilitate a broad range of applications,
ranging from projects to be carried out by smaller applicant organisations , to programme
proposals from professionally-staffed civil society organisations.
• The Scheme provides significant funds to projects/programmes aimed at reducing poverty,

improving availability of and access to education, health, water, sanitation, food and shelter,
and, importantly, strengthening the capacity of people in the developing world to pursue their
human, economic and social rights and to live in peace with justice and dignity.
Eligible Countries
• All countries which are designated by the Development Assistance Committee of the OECD
as developing countries.
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• purchase of materials and equipment
• training costs
• Administration and management costs up to 6% of the project/programme costs may be
claimed.
Size and Duration of Grant

For applicants which do not qualify for a block grant,??? there will be three funding rounds per
year. There can be up to 3 applications per round per organisation and no more than 5 applications
per organisation per year. These applications may be for multi-annual support (up to three years).
The maximum ceiling for each application is €200,000 per year. In each case, Irish Aid will fund
only up to a maximum of 75% of each application. The maximum annual ceiling for support to
organisations receiving multi-annual project support is €1 million.
The multi-annual block grant can be for a period up to three years. The maximum ceiling for these
grants in 2006 is €1.5m per year.
Applicants must complete the standard CSF application form, following the guidelines provided,
and send it to Civil Society Fund Scheme, Department of Foreign Affairs, Bishop’s Square,
Redmond Hill, Dublin 2. All applications will be acknowledged after they are checked to ensure
that they are complete and eligible. Ineligible applications will be returned. Applications which are
incomplete will not be appraised until the missing information has been supplied. Applications
which are not on the standard form will not be considered.
Appraisal
Appraisal is carried out by Irish Aid staff and external consultants. Projects are rated according to:
• development criteria e.g. reaching the poor, levels of participation, effectiveness, efficiency,
relevance, effects on women and men, sustainability, effects on the environment
• the type of activity proposed
• the experience and capacity of the agency in the country.
Each project is considered on its merits. Irish Aid staff will contact applicants if additional
information or clarification is required. After appraisal all projects are considered by an Advisory
Committee which comprises Irish Aid staff and external experts. The Committee recommends, in
the light of funds available, which projects should receive grant assistance. All applicants will be
informed, in writing, of the decision taken.
Subject to operational requirements, funding will be allocated on the basis of three major
allocation exercises each year.
Payment Procedure
Agencies are required to sign a contract with the Department of Foreign Affairs which sets out
terms and conditions for payment, reporting, publicity, insurance, and access to information.
Payment of the grant is normally made as soon as the contract is signed.
Reporting
Agencies are required to provide Irish Aid with reports on the basis outlined in the CSF guidelines
which are available at www.irishaid.gov.ie.
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The final report is due not later than three months, after the end of the contract period. In the case
of multi-annual funding a report should be submitted on an annual basis within three months of the
end of each year of funding. A financial statement must accompany all reports. Annual audited
accounts should also be provided. Interim reports are also welcome.
Publicity
programme and , where appropriate, at project sites.
A list of the projects funded under this Scheme each year is published in the Irish Aid Annual
Report.
13.7 MICRO PROJECTS SCHEME
Objective
Eligible Agencies
All applicants must show they are recognised by the Revenue Commissioners in Ireland as
charities or produce an Irish tax clearance number (in accordance with current legislation).
Eligible Projects
• Small-scale projects or small components of larger projects.
• Projects in the following sectors: water, sanitation, primary health care, basic education,
training, agriculture and food security, micro-enterprise development.
• Direct project costs
• Capital or equipment costs (when it can be justified as essential to the delivery of the
project)
• Purchase, repair or furnishing of buildings (when it is an integral part of the project)
• Overhead costs up to 6% of the total direct costs funded by Irish Aid
• Costs related to promoting changes in public policy in the developing country to
support the provision of basic services to poor communities
• Individual or family sponsorship;
• Projects undertaken by individuals;
• Interventions that are primarily of a welfare or direct service provision nature (i.e. that are
unsustainable in the absence of long-term external funding from Irish Aid);
• Servicing debt or loans;
• Study or research Fellowships (excluding short-duration training of staff, partners and
beneficiaries within the region);
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• Major infrastructural schemes;
• Evangelisation or prosyletisation;
• Emergencies;
• Activities which are essentially development education programmes;
• Retrospective Expenditure (i.e. costs incurred prior to the date of submission of the
application)
Grant Payable
Projects may be funded for up to 75% of eligible costs. The maximum grant is €20,000.
Application Procedures
Guidelines and application instructions for applying for funding of projects under the Micro
Projects Scheme are available from Irish Aid. All applications for funding must follow the format
set out in the application instructions. The purpose of these instructions is to provide guidance for
applicants on Irish Aid’s requirements and priorities and to provide Irish Aid with full details of
the project and evidence of the applicant’s capacity, in order to facilitate the appraisal process.
Administration and Appraisal

Applications will be acknowledged by Irish Aid. Consideration of incomplete applications will be
deferred until applicants have provided outstanding information, at the request of Irish Aid. All
applicants will be informed in writing of the outcome of their request.
The appraisal and approval procedures are those of the Civil Society Fund.
Payment Procedure
Reporting
Agencies are required to supply within one year of receipt of grant assistance a completion report
on all projects and a financial statement, detailing income and expenditure and outlining the way in
which the Irish Aid grant has been used.
Publicity
Agencies are required to show the amount of assistance received from Irish Aid in their annual
reports and should acknowledge Irish Aid support in all publicity material related to the
programme and,where appropriate, at project sites.
Report.
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13.8 IN-COUNTRY MICRO PROJECTS
Objective
The objective is to support local NGO activity in certain countries where there are Irish Embassies.
Eligible Agencies
• other groups recognised by law and involved in support of the local community.
Eligible Projects
• small-scale projects or small components of larger projects
• projects in the following sectors: water, sanitation, primary health, basic education, training,
rural development, urban community development
• projects which give priority to poverty alleviation, meeting basic needs, income generation
and employment creation, local capacity building, leadership training at community level.
Eligible Countries
Bangladesh, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Ghana, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Mexico, Nigeria, Sierra
Leone, Syria and Vietnam.
• training
• on-going running costs.
• costs of expatriate staff
• international travel.
Grant Payable
Irish Aid will fund up to 75% of eligible expenditure on the project. The balance of the cost must be
provided by the applicant agency, through local contributions or from other donors and this may be all or
partly in kind. The maximum grant which will be paid is €26,000.
The Irish Embassy in the country concerned will supply a standard application form to be
completed with basic information about the applicant, previous experience in the country, the
project and its budget. All applications will be acknowledged after they are checked to ensure that
they are complete and eligible. Ineligible applications will be returned. Applications which are
Appraisal
Each project is appraised by Irish Embassy staff. An Embassy official or a representative may visit
the project to see it at first hand. Applicants will be informed as soon as a decision on their request has
been made.
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Payment Procedure
Agencies are required to sign a contract with the Embassy governing payment, reporting, publicity,
and access to information. Payment of the grant is made by the Embassy when the contract is
signed.
Reporting
which the Irish Aid grant has been used. Interim reports are also welcome.
Publicity
Participants are required to give due credit to Irish Aid for the assistance provided.
Evaluation/Audit.
Each year Irish Aid selects a number of projects at random for evaluation and audit. Applicant
agencies which do not comply with the conditions set out by Irish Aid are most unlikely to receive
further assistance. A list of the projects funded under this Scheme each year is published in the
Irish Aid Annual Report.
13.9 IRISH MISSIONARY RESOURCE SERVICE (IMRS)
Irish missionaries continue to carry out development work in some 90 countries. Irish Aid is
strongly supportive of this valuable work. A dedicated Missionary Development Fund was created
in 2002 which is now administered by the Irish Missionary Resource Service (IMRS). This
organisation also administers the personnel co-financing scheme for Catholic missionaries. Details
on funding may be obtained from The Irish Missionary Resource Service, St. Paul’s Retreat,
Mount Argus, Kimmage Road Lower, Dublin 6W or on its website at www.imrs.ie.
13.10 PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMME FOR EUROPE AND CENTRAL ASIA (PPECA)
Objective
The PPECA Funding Scheme is intended to assist people in poverty in countries of the Balkans
and the Commonwealth of Independent States (former Soviet Union) as they undergo the transition
to democracy and recover from the armed conflicts of the 1990s. The small and medium-sized
projects and programmes that are funded are carried out by Irish, international and local NGOs, by
international intergovernmental organisations, United Nations agencies or in partnership with other
donor countries.
Eligible projects/activities
The programme seeks to address the underlying causes of poverty, alleviate some of the
consequences of poverty in the case of people who are most disadvantaged, assist Government and
civil society capacity-building, contribute to sustainable economic growth and/or promote
democratisation and human rights.
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Ineligible expenditure
The following are not supported:
• major infrastructure,
• direct grants or loans to businesses,
• projects that are primarily of a welfare nature,
• sponsorship of individuals or families,
• educational scholarships,
• projects already being assisted under other Irish Aid funding schemes or projects the sole
purpose of which is attendance at conferences or workshops.
Eligible Agencies
• Registered national and international charities
• International organisations including United Nations agencies
• Other organisations/authorities with relevant competence
Registration
All applicants are required to preregister with Irish Aid and complete and return a Pre-qualification
Form, copies of which are available from the relevant Section Programme Countries Section. in
Irish Aid (tel. 4082790/4082801).
Procedures
Funding is normally allocated on the basis of recommendations agreed at meetings of the PPECA
Funding Committee. Each application for funding is considered on its own merits and in the light
of funds available.
Presentation of Project Proposal

In order to have a project proposal considered for funding, the applicants are invited, as part of the
general scrutiny process, to come into the offices of Irish Aid and give a short presentation,
outlining the relevance and value-added of their particular funding proposal.
General Criteria:
• coherence with World Bank PRSP or similar national or regional programmes and
established linkage with local, national or regional institutions;
• coordination with relevant organisations, including other donor programmes, operating in the
sector;
• local capacity-building and a clear exit strategy as a fundamental component of the
programme (may be modified in cases of humanitarian assistance); and
• cost effectiveness i.e. substantial numbers of beneficiaries and/or multiplier effect
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Checklist
• Applications should be submitted in electronic format only;
• Applications should follow the standard application format;
• The budget should clearly indicate funding by year requested from Irish Aid;
• The budget should include funds provided from other sources and overall cost; and
• Provision should be made for an evaluation as an integral part of the project or programme.
Consideration of applications
Irish Aid may contact an applicant for clarification purposes during the assessment process.
Each application for funding is considered on its own merits and in the light of funds available.
If an application in respect of a project or programme has not previously received funding from
Irish Aid and/or if the applicant has doubts regarding its eligibility for funding, the applicant may
submit a concept note for preliminary consideration and guidance.
Representations
Attempts by applicants to influence the outcome of the process in relation to grant applications will
not be entertained.
Contracts
Successful applicants are required to enter into contracts before any part of a grant is paid.
Payment is made by electronic funds transfer to a bank account.
Finance
An itemised budget must be provided in addition to detailed costings. All amounts should be
expressed in Euro.
Reporting
Short reports should be submitted at yearly intervals or on completion of one-year projects.
Reports should cover:
• aims and objectives;
• inputs;
• activities;
• outcomes and results; and
• impact.
Reports should be no longer than five pages and should include financial statements showing
income (including from other donors) and expenditure.
Evaluation
Evaluations should be carried out by independent qualified persons or bodies and copies submitted
to Irish Aid. The cost of the evaluation should be included in the programme proposals. Evaluation
reports should address outputs, results, impacts and lessons learned; the focus should be on
outcomes rather than activities.
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Auditing
Irish Aid audits and evaluates a cross-section of projects and programmes. Grant recipients are
required to cooperate with Irish Aid in carrying out evaluations and audits and to provide access to
all relevant documents as requested.
First time applicants should present copies of their most recent audited accounts
and proofs of permission to operate in the relevant countries.
13.11 DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION AND OTHER EDUCATION GRANT

SCHEMES
Objective
Development education is an educational process aimed at increasing awareness and understanding
of the rapidly changing, interdependent and unequal world in which we live. The aim of Irish
Aid’s development education policy is to support the mainstreaming of development education
within education in Ireland and the promotion of greater public awareness and understanding of
development issues.
The Development Education Grants Scheme aims to enable education bodies, groups and
organisations to implement development education projects and programmes and to undertake
research. Grants are awarded twice a year.
The Development Education Unit operates Irish Aid’s Fellowship and Training Programme and
other fellowships and supports a programme of Strategic cooperation with Higher Education,
Research and Training Institutes, to promote and support development education at Third Level.
Cross cutting issues

• Capacity Building
• Research
• Links between Ireland and Developing Countries
• Development Education from a Global and Justice Perspective
• Education Resources
Types of Development Education Grants available

• Strategic Priority Fund
• Civil Society Development Education Fund
• Capacity Building Fund
• Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund
Strategic Priority Fund

The Development Education Strategy Plan of Irish Aid sets out as a key objective “to integrate and
support the delivery of development education in selected areas in the formal and non-formal
education sectors.” These areas include:
• Teacher education
• Curriculum support and development at primary and second level
• Youth work
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• Community work
• Third level
The Strategic Priority Fund is a multi-annual fund and grants can be applied for on a programme or
project basis. Irish Aid is committed to developing strategies for each of the priority areas of work
and these strategies will inform future funding. Groups and organisations that have developed
work plans in any one or more of the five priority areas above may apply for grants from this fund.
Information is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie or by email from developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
Civil Society Development Education Fund

This fund seeks to support civil society groups and organisations that wish to educate and create a
greater understanding of development issues amongst the Irish public. The fund covers education
work over a broad range of development themes and areas, which are in keeping with the
principles and definition of development education set out in the Irish Aid strategy plan.
Information is avaialbe at www.irishaid.gov.ie or by email from developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
Capacity Building Fund

Irish Aid sees the strengthening of capacity of development education as critical to the future
growth and sustainability of development education in Ireland. Irish Aid wishes to develop a
strategy for such capacity building in consultation and in partnership with organisations and with
groups in that sector. Arising from this, funds are made available to groups who can contribute to
the delivery of this strategy. Information is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie or by email from
developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
Grant Duration
All funds (except the Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund) can be applied for on the basis of
either a project lasting no longer than a year or a multi-annual programme. Please note that a one
year project under the Strategic Priority Fund requires consultation with Development Education
Unit.
Current Grant Types
Multi-Annual Programme
• Rationale: Grants facilitate groups and organisations undertaking substantive development
education work, based on a strategic and long-term vision
• Eligibility: Organisations or groups with a proven track record in the delivery of
development education
• Duration: Minimum two years, maximum three years
• Types of initiatives:
A programme may comprise a number of projects or activities which contribute to the overall
programme aim or a single project. Such initiatives can fall within either the Civil Society
Development Education Fund or Strategic Priority Fund. In cases where a programme
covers areas relevant to the Strategic Priority Fund and the Civil Society Fund, one
application suffices. All programme applications should integrate a capacity
building/organisational development and training (ODT) component into the work. This can
be funded as part of the overall programme of work (to a limit of 15% of the overall budget).
• Grant levels: Minimum grant awarded of €50,000 a year.
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Projects
• Rationale: Grants facilitate groups or organisations in carrying out stand-alone projects in
• Eligibility: Organisations or groups undertaking development education activities or including a
development education perspective in their education work
• Duration: Maximum one year (except projects which qualify for Strategic Priority Funding)
• Types of initiatives: Projects as outlined above under ‘grant types’
• Grant levels: Minimum grant awarded €5,000 a year
Ineligibility for Development Education funding

• Cultural events, unless part of a wider development education project
• Welfare projects, such as provision of language classes or information on legal and social
welfare rights
• Education Projects, of which the primary aim is to raise the profile of an organisation or to
raise funds
• Exposure visits overseas, unless part of a wider development education project and where it
can be demonstrated that the learning will benefit a broad group of people in Ireland
• Libraries or resource centres, unless part of a wider development education programme
• Projects relating to the environment, peace, culture or anti racism, where the focus is
exclusively or mainly concerned with problems and solutions in Ireland
• One off or stand alone school talks or workshops unless linked to a broader education
programme
• Grants for work in individual schools. (However Irish Aid would welcome applications from
school cluster networks or schools working in partnership with other groups or organisations)
Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund

The Simon Cumbers Media Challenge fund supports media personnel and development education
organisations that wish to develop radio programmes, print, photo or new media projects, aimed at
exploring development issues with emphasis on links between local and global. Applications for
the fund are accepted once a year in November. Information is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie or
by email from developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
Fellowships
The Development Education Unit also has responsibility for the Irish Aid Fellowship and Training
Programme. Irish Aid has made a significant investment, through the Irish Aid Fellowship
Training Programme, in further education and training aimed at capacity building of policy makers
and development practitioners in its partner countries in Africa. The programme is implemented in
partnership with the Irish Council for Overseas Students (ICOS) and Kimmage Development
Studies Centre. Successful applicants are enrolled in a wide range of post-graduate diploma and
degree courses in third-level colleges in Ireland or in their home regions.
The Development Education Unit has responsibility for the recently established academic
fellowship in memory of the late Swedish Foreign Minister, Anna Lindh. The purpose of the Anna
Lindh fellowship is to encourage research into and raise public awareness of the role of the EU in
conflict prevention and conflict resolution.
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The Courtney Fellowship was set up by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2004 to commemorate
the late Archbishop Michael Courtney. It facilitates one Burundian student per year who wishes to
study in Ireland. The Fellowship is aimed at Masters level study in governance or peace studies.
Irish Aid Immersion and Linking Scheme

The overall objective of the scheme will be to support schools linking and immersion as a means
of raising awareness of development issues among students and teachers in the second level school
sector in Ireland.. In line with Irish Aid’s broader development education strategy, the scheme will
seek to support the building of relationships, based on mutual learning between schools in Ireland
and in developing countries. It is intended to have this new programme in place by early 2007.
Programme of Strategic Cooperation with the Higher Education, Training and Research
Institutes
The proposed programme of cooperation is intended to complement the extensive range of
activities, implemented in cooperation with Irish Higher Education, Research and Training
Institutes that are already funded by Irish Aid.
Whilst a key objective is capacity strengthening in countries where Irish Aid works, the
programme is based on a collaborative approach between Irish Aid and participating higher
education, research and training institutions in Ireland and in developing countries.
The Development Education Unit of Irish Aid will be responsible for the overall management and
oversight of the programme. The goal is to have the programme in place by early 2007.
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14.1 EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border
Counties of Ireland (Peace II)
Background
The EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border Regions of
Ireland (Peace II) is a distinctive European Union Structural Funds Programme aimed at promoting
reconciliation and helping to build a more peaceful and stable society. Initially for four years
(2000-2004) the Peace II Programme was extended for a further two years until 2006.
Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)

The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), one of the six all-island Implementation Bodies
established on 2 December 1999 under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement, is the Managing
Authority for the Programme. The Department of Foreign Affairs is represented on the Programme
Monitoring Committee in an advisory capacity.
Further Information
Further information on this programme may be obtained by contacting the SEUPB at:
EU House,
6 Cromac Place,
BELFAST BT7 2JB
Tel: +44 28 9026 6660
Fax: +44 28 9026 6661
Email: info@seupb.org
14.2 THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS RECONCILIATION FUND
Background
The Department of Foreign Affairs has at its disposal, within its budget, a Reconciliation Fund for
North-South and Anglo-Irish Cooperation. Its purpose is to assist organisations involved in
reconciliation work and efforts to create better understanding between people in both parts of
Ireland and between Ireland and Britain. The amount available in 2005 is €2,631,000. .
Eligibility Criteria
Applications for assistance will be considered from organisations committed to:
• reconciliation through education, courses, dialogue and culture
• developing and maintaining meaningful cross-border links
• promoting improved Anglo-Irish relations
• promoting cross-community and inter-denominational activities
• promotion of tolerance and acceptance of cultural diversity
• academic research aimed at promoting reconciliation
• contribution to political reconciliation.
How to Apply
Assistance is provided on a once-off basis. Organisations may apply for and receive assistance
each year. It may be used for a specific project or as a contribution towards general running costs.
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Applications must be made on the standard application forms available from the Department of
Foreign Affairs.
Each application will be considered in the first round of funding following receipt of the
application. Applications should be addressed to:
The Reconciliation Fund,

Anglo-Irish Division,
80 St. Stephen’s Green,
Dublin 2.
Telephone: (01) 408 2273
Decisions
Decisions are made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on foot of recommendations made by the
Interdepartmental Advisory Committee on the Reconciliation Fund. The decisions are reached on
the basis of the eligibility criteria outlined above. Other factors taken into account are the level of
funding available each year and the number and quality of applications submitted. The overriding
aim is to ensure as widespread and equitable distribution of the fund as possible based on the merit
of the individual proposals. The Minister’s decision is final.
Reporting
An organisation which has received assistance from the Reconciliation Fund must send a report
and Financial Statement describing how the money has been spent to the Department of Foreign
Affairs, not later than 31 December of the year in question. Where the amount exceeds €12,700,
these should be accompanied by a copy of its Annual Audited Accounts.
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Section 16 Reference Book
May, 2006
91
CONTENTS SECTION 16
6. INTRODUCTION
7.2 Recruitment of local chancery staff to Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions
overseas

10.1 Introduction
10.2 Where to apply
10.4 Eligibility
10.5 How to apply

13 PROVISION OF VISA SERVICES

13.1 Issuing visas
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13.1 Irish Aid Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations
13.4 Emergency Preparedness and Post-emergency Rehabilitation Fund
13.6 Civil Society Fund (CSF)
13.7 Micro Projects Scheme
13.10 Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia (PPECA)


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6. INTRODUCTION
Under Section 16 of the Freedom of Information Acts, 1997 and 2003, the Department of Foreign
Affairs is required to publish a manual containing:
• the rules, procedures, practices, guidelines and interpretations and an index of any precedents
kept for the purposes of decisions, determinations or recommendations under any enactment or
scheme administered by the Department with respect to rights, privileges, benefits, obligations,
penalties or other sanctions to which members of the public are or may be entitled or subject to
under the enactment or scheme
• information in relation to the manner or intended manner of administration of any such
enactment or scheme.
This reference book provides a guide to the rules and practices under which this Department makes
decisions that affect the rights, privileges, benefits, etc. of members of the public, so that citizens
can make an informed judgement as to whether their entitlements have been accorded to them in
full. Where the rules or guidelines governing a scheme or entitlement are not outlined in full in this
reference book, information is provided as to where such rules, guidelines, etc. can be accessed for
inspection by members of the public.
Information is provided in this reference book in relation to the following schemes, which affect
members of the public, operated by the Department of Foreign Affairs:
• disbursement of Bilateral Aid to voluntary groups;
• supporting irish Emigrant Groups
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7. Recruitment and Employment of Staff

All full-time posts in the Department of Foreign Affairs, with certain exceptions indicated below,
are filled by permanent Civil Servants who are recruited through the Public Appointments Service,
which is the central recruiting body for the whole of the civil service. Recruitment is through a
series of competitions organised by the Public Appointments Service and which are advertised in
the national press. Competitions generally involve an initial written examination, followed by a
competitive interview. Arising from this process, panels of successful candidates are then drawn
up and assigned, in order of merit, to vacancies as they arise in Departments throughout the civil
service. It should be noted that there is no guarantee of assignment to the Department of Foreign
Affairs except in the case of vacancies at Third Secretary level which is a grade specific to this
Department. The Department of Foreign Affairs currently inform the Public Appointments Service
of vacancies existing and request the Public Appointments Service to assign candidates from the
appropriate panels to fill them.
The recruitment of contract staff – Development Specialists (DS), Senior DS and Principal DS –
for the Irish Aid programme is now also handled in the same manner by the Public Appointments
Commission.
The Department of Foreign Affairs also organises its own separate competitions to recruit
personnel to the positions of Services Officer, Cleaner and Temporary Clerical Officer. Any
vacancies in such positions are advertised through FÁS and the National Rehabilitation Board.
Members of the public may also apply individually to the Department in connection with these
positions but any persons doing so will be requested subsequently to register with FÁS. Vacancies
in these positions are filled through competitive interview following which a panel will be
established from which successful candidates will be called by the Department in order of merit,
and as vacancies arise.
The Department of Foreign Affairs also offers a limited number of stagiaire positions each year to
recently qualified law graduates. These positions are advertised through the universities and in the
national press. Persons recruited to these paid positions serve for a period of twelve months in the
Department’s Legal Division or Human Rights Unit (Political Division).
7.2 Recruitment of Local Chancery Staff to Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions
Overseas
Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions overseas have delegated authority to recruit administrative
and support staff locally as the need arises, subject to agreed staff numbers at each Mission, which
cannot be exceeded. Recruitment to local staff posts does not involve entry to the permanent Irish
civil service and the employees are classed as Temporary Unestablished State Employees.
Recruitment is based on the needs of the individual Mission and takes account of local recruitment
and employment norms. While the precise procedure may vary slightly from post to post to take
account of local employment law and norms, generally, the process would involve an open
advertisement of the vacancy, followed by an initial screening of written applications received and
a competitive interview of suitable candidates. The terms of employment for local staff
employees are not those applicable to permanent civil servants, but are instead a matter of contract
between the Mission and the employees. Contracts take account of local as well as Irish
employment regulations and norms.
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Financial provision is made for the employment, by individual Ambassadors, of domestic staff at
official residences abroad. This is for the purpose of maintaining each residence as a suitable venue
for the Ambassador and Embassy to offer official hospitality on behalf of the State. Subject to
agreed numbers in each case, the recruitment and employment process is delegated to the
Ambassador based on his or her assessment of how best the Embassy residence should be run as an
official building.
7.3 RECRUITMENT OF ELECTION MONITORS FOR THIRD COUNTRIES

From time to time, the Department recruits experts to monitor elections in third countries.
Provision is made under the Department’s International Cooperation budget to fund these
missions. Part of the cost of sending monitors may also be met by the EU or international
organisations. Election monitors are selected according to previous experience of election
processes, developmental experience and general suitability. Applicants are interviewed and a pre-
departure training course is given. Details are provided on the Irish Aid website: www.irish
aid.gov.ie. Further information is also available from (01) 408 2744.
7.4 STAFF REGULATIONS

All staff recruited by the Department of Foreign Affairs, either directly or indirectly, are subject to
the civil service personnel code and the internal staff regulations of the Department. The civil
service personnel code is outlined in the Section 16 Reference Book produced by the Department
of Finance, copies of which are available from the FOI Unit in that Department, telephone:(01)
676 7571.
The internal staff regulations are described and set out in internal circulars and office notices
issued periodically to all staff within the Department of Foreign Affairs. Further information on the
Department’s staff regulations may be obtained by contacting the Management Services Section,
telephone: (01) 408 2123.

The Department of Foreign Affairs adheres to the general procedures which are prescribed for all
Government Departments in relation to public tendering and the procurement of goods and
services.
Copies of the relevant guidelines and directives which set out the principles and procedures to be
observed by public bodies can be found at www.etenders.gov.ie
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9.1 USE OF CONSULTANTS BY THE DEPARTMENT
Consultants may be employed on a contract basis in circumstances where a specific skill or

expertise is required which is not available in the Department.
The Department of Foreign Affairs conforms to the general rules and guidelines governing the use
of consultants by Government departments, including the rules on Public Procurement and relevant
EU Directives. These rules and guidelines are contained in a publication entitled “Engaging
Management Consultants - A Code of Practice for the Civil Service”, a copy of which may be
obtained from the Votes Control Section in the Department of Finance, telephone: (01)
6045545/604 5544.
Alternatively, copies are also available on the Department of Finance’s website
www.finance.gov.ie
9.2 ENGAGEMENT OF CONSULTANTS UNDER THE IRISH AID PROGRAMME

Consultants are employed on short-term contracts under the Irish Aid Programme to assist with the
review and evaluation of existing projects and programmes and the planning, design and
preparation of new projects and programmes. A Register of Consultants was set up in September
1993, following national advertising, comprising people with skills in particular sectors applicable
to the Irish Aid Programme such as primary education, agriculture, engineering, etc. This Register
was re-advertised and updated in 1997 and new applications were added to the register as they
were received. Further information on the Register of Consultants may be obtained by contacting
the Development Cooperation Directorate, telephone: (01) 408 2907.
Projects requiring the use of a consultant are approved at a meeting of the PAEG (Project
Appraisal and Evaluation Group), an interdepartmental committee which approves spending under
the Bilateral Aid Programme. When projects have been approved, Department of Finance
Guidelines and EU regulations are followed in regard to the method of procuring the services of a
consultant (see www.etenders.gov.ie/guides). Depending on the level of expenditure, the method
of procurement will range from preparing short lists of suitable consultants based on the Register
of Consultants with an invitation to tender sent to a minimum of three consultants through to a full
EU Procurement Process. Selection is made by a committee of officers from the Directorate in
accordance with the appropriate procedures as set out in Department of Finance Guidelines and
EU Regulations.
Feedback on the assessment of their tender is given to all candidates.
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10.1 INTRODUCTION
Irish citizens require a passport for travel to all countries, including European Union member
states, other than the United Kingdom.
10.2 WHERE TO APPLY

In Ireland passports can be applied for through:
• the “Passport Express” service which is now available at over 1,000 Post Offices around the
country displaying An Post’s ServicePlus logo; or
• directly by ordinary post; or
• in person at the Passport Offices in Cork (which caters for people residing in Munster) or
Dublin (which deals with applications from persons residing elsewhere in Ireland); or
• Persons in Northern Ireland may apply through the ‘Passport express’ service which is
available at over 40 post office branches, or also by ordinary post.
Citizens residing outside Ireland should apply to the Irish Embassy or Consulate in with
responsibility for their country of residence.
10.3 DESCRIPTION OF SERVICE
Passports are issued within ten working days in response to properly completed “Passport Express”
and counter applications from persons residing in Ireland. Applications made directly to the Dublin
and Cork offices by ordinary post are processed within 3 or 4 weeks.
The processing time for applications submitted through Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad
varies from mission to mission. The maximum waiting time should not be more than 6 weeks and
in most cases will be much shorter than that.
Where a passport is applied for in a genuine emergency during office hours and proof of travel is
produced, every effort is made to meet the travel date. In addition, the Department of Foreign
Affairs in Dublin has a Duty Officer on call outside normal office hours to deal with urgent
matters, including the issuing of passports of restricted validity. Such passports are issued in
situations of real and genuine emergency only. Duty Officers may be contacted through the
Department’s main telephone number: (01) 478 0822.
A Duty Officer is also available in the Department in Iveagh House, 80 St. Stephen’s Green,
Dublin on Saturdays from 9.00a.m. to 5.00p.m. and on Sundays and public holidays (excluding
Christmas Day and New Year’s Day) from 9.00a.m. to 2.00p.m. to issue new passports to people
requiring them urgently whose previous passports have been mislaid, lost or stolen or because they
find just before travelling that they are out of date. The fee for this service is €100 for adults and
€50 for minors. Under this service a restricted validity emegency passport is issued. Persons must
later reapply for a regular passport to the Passport Office
10.4 ELIGIBILITY
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Only an Irish citizen may hold an Irish passport. Irish citizenship law is defined in the Irish
Nationality and Citizenship Acts, 1956 to 2004.
The courts have ruled that all citizens have a constitutional right to a passport. However, the right
of a child to travel is subject to the consent of other parties, generally the child’s parents and/or
other guardians and/or the courts. The Department of Foreign Affairs through its Passport Offices
in Ireland and its Embassies and Consulates abroad is therefore obliged to grant passports to every
Irish citizen who applies and submits an application in the prescribed manner except in the
following cases:
• where there exists a Court Order expressly and specifically prohibiting the issuance of a
passport to a particular citizen; or
• where the applicant’s name is recorded on the Department’s stop-list; or
• in the case of minors, where explicit written witnessed consent by all parents, as defined in
the Guardianship of Infants Act, 1964, the Status of Children Act, 1987 and the Children Act,
1997, and legal guardians, or a court order dispensing with such consent, is not produced; or
• where the Minister decides that in the interest of public order and the common good of the
State an applicant should not hold an Irish passport.
The Passport Office maintains a stop-list of individuals to whom, for one reason or another,
passports are not automatically issued.
10.5 HOW TO APPLY
Each applicant for a passport must present:
• a completed application form;

• original documentary proof of Irish citizenship;
• proof of identity;
• two identical photographs;
• the appropriate passport fee;
• the consent of parents or guardians in the case of minors or court orders dispensing with such
consent, and
• any other evidence or affidavits that the issuing office may deem necessary.
Documents presented must be originals or copies certified by the issuing authorities.

Certificates in languages other than Irish or English must be accompanied by certified translations.
10.5.1 Passport Application Forms
The APS 1 application form is for the use of applicants resident in the State. The APS2 form is for
the use of applicants resident outside the State.
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10.5.2 Form of Name
A passport is issued in the name by which the person is normally known. If this differs from the
version entered on the birth certificate they are required to produce evidence of usage of the name
for at least 2 years eg tax documents, bank statements, drivers licence, school reports etc. Two
examples of these would be required. A deed poll may also be required.
A passport may be issued in the married name of the applicant on production of a civil marriage
certificate or evidence of intention to marry, such as a letter from the registrar or clergyman.
10.5.3 Citizenship Documentation
Details of the documentation required are contained in the Explanatory Notes attached to the
passport application form.
10.5.4 Certification of Application Forms
Applicants in the State must have their application form and the reverse of their photographs
witnessed and certified by a Garda officer, normally at their local Garda Station. The Garda should
be satisfied as to the applicant’s identity.
Applicants outside the State must have their application form and the reverse of their photographs
witnessed and certified by one of the persons listed (who must not be a relative). The person
certifying must either know the applicant personally or be introduced to the applicant by a third
party personally known to her/him.
In all cases [other than children too young to sign or adults unable to sign] the applicant must sign
Section 8 of the form (declaration by applicant) in the presence of the person completing the
certificate of identity at Section 9 of the application form.
Passport application forms must be lodged within 6 months of the date on which the declaration
was witnessed; otherwise a fresh form must be completed.
10.5.5 Photographs
The two photographs submitted should be of an acceptable type, not more than 6 months old,
35mm x 45mm in size and preferably full front view of head and shoulders without head covering
or tinted glasses. If applicants wear ordinary non-tinted glasses as a matter of course, photographs
showing these may be accepted.
Preferably the background in the photographs should be clear. If the photographs are not of a
reasonably high quality they will be rejected.
Passport photographs should not show a military or police uniform.
10.5.6 Fees
The fees for granting passport facilities are fixed by statutory instrument. In the case of postal
applications passport fees should be paid by cheque, postal order, money order or bank draft which
should be crossed and made payable to the relevant Passport Office or Embassy. Payments for
“Passport Express” applications made at participating Post Offices in the State should be made to
An Post. Applicants in Northern Ireland using the Passport Express service there pay the passport
fee, along with the post office handling charge, at the post office.
For applications made to the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork fees may be paid in euro.
Payment may be made as in the case of postal applications or by credit or debit card. At Embassies
and Consulates abroad fees should be paid in the local currencies.
10.5.7 Consent of Parents or Guardians
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The consent of parents/guardians is required for the issue of a passport to a minor, ie a person
under 18 years of age, unless married.
Consent is valid for the life of the passport applied for, i.e. either 3 or 5 years, even if the passport
is initially issued for a shorter period, unless the contrary is stated in writing by the parent or
guardian.
The procedures to be followed when the consent of one or both parents/guardians is not available
are outlined in the explanatory leaflet attached to the passport application form.
10.5.8 Affidavits
In certain circumstances, applicants will be required to provide affidavits which must be sworn
before a Commissioner for Oaths. Copies of the respective affidavit forms are available from the
Passport Offices and from Embassies and Consulates abroad. These are also available on the
Passport Office website www.passport.ie.
10.5.9 Statement on Loss of a Passport
When a passport has been lost or stolen the ‘Statement of Loss’ section of the passport application
form should be completed, witnessed at a Garda/Police Station and submitted with the application
for a new passport.
The statement of loss should be a detailed explanation of what happened to the missing passport.
10.5.10 Incomplete Applications
Incomplete applications are returned to applicants with a full explanation of the documentation
required to enable a passport to be issued.
10.6 TYPES OF PASSPORTS
Passports are issued based upon the age of the applicant.
• Infants up to age 3 are issued with a 3 year passport.
• Children aged 3 to 17 are issued with a 5 year passport.
• Adults aged 18 and upwards are issued with a 10 year passport.
Details of passport fees are contained in the Explanatory Notes attached to the passport application
form. These are also available on the passport office website.
To facilitate frequent business travellers in areas where visas are required, the Passport Office, in
exceptional cases, will consider requests for second (business) passports on the basis of detailed
written explanations from employing firms as to why they are needed.
10.6.1 Collective Passports

Collective passports, which are valid for three months for one return journey out of Ireland, are
issued only by the Passport Office, Dublin to:
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(a) organised groups of people under 21 years of age travelling for educational, cultural or
pilgrimage purposes to the following countries which are parties to the European Agreement on
Travel by Young Persons on Collective Passports: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France,
Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the USA.
(b) invalid pilgrims travelling to Lourdes, with no age limit, subject to a certificate from a doctor
that all are invalids.
Groups must have leaders who are at least 21 years of age and who hold individual valid Irish
passports. Leaders must carry the collective passports - comprising single sheets containing the
names of group members and a travel card issued to each individual member - and be responsible
for dealing with immigration controls on behalf of groups. Leaders must stay with groups and
ensure that they remain together.
10.6.2 Emergency Passports

Previously known as Emergency Travel Certificates (ETC), Emergency Passports are intended for
a single journey to the bearer’s country of permanent residence. They are normally issued only by
Embassies and Consulates abroad.
10.7 RULES, PRODECURES, PRACTICES, GUIDELINES AND INTERPRETATIONS
A Consular Instructions manual outlining the internal rules, procedures, practices, guidelines,
interpretations and precedents under which the Passport Offices operate is available from the Passport
Office, Dublin on request. The manual contains sections dealing with the legal aspects of the granting
of passports, passports for minors, names that may be put in passports, the procedures for dealing with
lost/stolen passports and the issuing of emergency passports. It also deals with citizenship matters.
The reference book contains copies of the following documents:
• guidelines on passport facilities for children;
• list of sample cases involving minors;
• guidelines for Duty Officers;
• non-statutory consolidation of legal texts;
• extracts from important court decisions;
• staff circulars relating to procedures;
10.7.1 Index of Precedent Cases

The manual also contains details of precedents for the following situations by which the Passport
Offices are guided as well as by the legislation, guidelines, procedures and court decisions
mentioned above, when considering applications:
1. Need to obtain a court order dispensing with the consent of a guardian who is incapable, for
medical reasons, of giving consent to the issue of a passport to his/her minor child.
2. Dispensing with consent in separation or guardianship agreements or in orders issued pursuant
to the Judicial Separation and Family Law Act, 1989.
3. Recognising foreign divorces; guardianship of minor children of second marriages.
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4. Not the function of the Passport Office to “look behind” court orders validly issued.
5. Need to have the authority of the President of the High Court to grant passport facilities to
minors who have been made Wards of Court.
6. Children committed to the care of Health Boards outside the jurisdiction.
7. Passport facilities for citizens residing outside the jurisdiction who are the subject of court
proceedings which require that they not leave that country.
8. Passports for citizens who have undergone gender reassignment surgery.
10.8 FURTHER INFORMATION
Further information is available from the Passport Office website www.passport.ie or from your
nearest Embassy or Consulate (see Appendix III)
E-mail enquiries may be made to passportdublin@dfa.ie and passportcork@dfa.ie
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The Department’s Consular Section and Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad provide a range of
services relating to the consular protection of Irish citizens visiting or resident in other countries.
They also make available a number of other consular services and services relating to Irish
citizenship.
Entitlement
Irish citizens in Ireland or in another country (provided they are not also citizens of that country)
are entitled to consular services for themselves or their relatives on request to the Consular Section
of the Department or to an Irish Embassy or Consulate abroad. There are statutory charges for
some of the services, for example €45 for transferring funds abroad or for repatriations.
11.1 CONSULAR PROTECTION OF IRISH CITIZENS
Irish citizens who are not also citizens of the foreign country concerned are entitled to the consular
protection of the Irish Government. The principal consular services provided are:
• assistance in connection with deaths abroad

• assistance to victims of serious accidents or illnesses
• assistance to victims of crime
• assistance to people arrested, detained or imprisoned
• transferring funds to Irish citizens abroad
• repatriation of Irish citizens in distress.
Assistance in connection with deaths abroad
In the case of the death of an Irish citizen abroad, relatives in Ireland will be informed by the Garda
Síochána. If necessary in such cases, the Department, on the basis of information from the relevant
Embassy or Consulate, will assist relatives in deciding whether to arrange a funeral where the death
occurs or to transfer the remains home to Ireland. On request, the Department will get estimates
from undertakers and put the relatives or an undertaker in Ireland in contact with a reputable
undertaker in the country concerned. The Embassy or Consulate will also advise the family or
undertaker about Irish requirements with regard to remains being transported to Ireland. It can also
help in having autopsies done, in requesting that inquests be held and/or in obtaining a death
certificate in the country concerned. If necessary, an Embassy or Consulate can assist relatives in
Ireland in recovering personal effects of people who die abroad and/or in getting information about
the estates of deceased Irish citizens.
Assistance to victims of serious accidents or illnesses
The relevant Embassy or Consulate, particularly in countries where English is not spoken, will
give practical assistance to citizens involved in serious accidents or suffering from serious
illnesses. It will liaise with doctors and hospitals and, through the Department, with relatives in
Ireland. If necessary, in consultation with medical authorities, it will arrange or assist relatives to
arrange the evacuation to Ireland of injured or ill people.
Assistance to victims of crime
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Victims of crime may be assisted as necessary in reporting to the police and in getting medical
treatment and legal advice.
Assistance to people arrested, detained or imprisoned
Irish citizens arrested or detained abroad will be contacted and, if they wish, visited by the relevant
Embassy or Consulate. The Embassy or Consulate will satisfy itself regarding the circumstances of
the arrest or detention and the safeguarding of the Irish citizen’s human and legal rights. It will
ensure that the person arrested or detained has the services of a lawyer, that, if desired, he/she can
communicate with relatives and friends and that he/she can avail of any offer of bail. When Irish
citizens are sentenced to terms in prison, the Embassy or Consulate will seek to ensure that the
living conditions are as humane as possible and that they can communicate with relatives, friends
and lawyers. It is the Department’s policy that prisoners be visited at least once a year.
Transferring funds to Irish citizens abroad
Where Irish people travelling abroad urgently need money and it is not possible for relatives or
friends to send it to them through commercial channels, an Embassy or Consulate will pay the
equivalent of an amount lodged with a Garda Station or with the Department in Dublin. A fee of
€35 is charged for this service.
Repatriation of Irish citizens in distress
Irish citizens abroad who are destitute may ask an Embassy or Consulate to repatriate them, and
any minor children accompanying them, at State expense. The Department, if satisfied as to the
circumstances (including the non-availability of financial assistance from relatives or friends in
Ireland), will authorise repatriation on the basis that the expenditure will be refunded in due course
and that in the meantime passport facilities will not be available to the persons concerned.
Further information
Consular protection of Irish citizens is available in Part 4 of the Department’s “Consular
2302 or (01) 408 2308.
11.2 CONSULAR PROTECTION OF EU CITIZENS
Article 8 (c) of the Treaty establishing the European Community, as amended by the Treaty on
European Union signed in Maastricht, states that “Every citizen of the Union shall, in the territory
of a third country in which the Member State of which he is a national is not represented, be entitled to
protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of any Member State, on the same conditions as
the nationals of that State.”
In 1995, the Governments of the EU Member States decided on measures to give effect to this right
of consular protection. An EU citizen in distress and requiring consular protection in a country
outside the EU where there is no accessible Embassy or Consulate of his/her own country, may
request protection from an Embassy or Consulate of any other Member State which will give:
• assistance in cases of death, serious accident or serious illness

• assistance in cases of arrest or detention
• assistance to victims of violent crime, and
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• if necessary, relief or repatriation.
The Embassy or Consulate concerned will communicate with the Foreign Ministry of the EU
citizen’s own country.
11.3 OTHER CONSULAR SERVICES
Other services of a consular nature provided to Irish citizens are:

• advising intending travellers about conditions in particular countries
• assistance in cases of disputed custody of children
• following up inquiries about the welfare or whereabouts of Irish citizens abroad
• authenticating and legalising signatures on documents
• administering oaths, taking affidavits and doing notarial acts, and
• issuing certificates of freedom to marry abroad.
Advising intending travellers about conditions in particular countries
The Department will pass on to intending travellers information it receives from an Irish Embassy
or Consulate, from one or more of our EU partners or from any other reliable source about risks to
health or life (due to civil disorder, outbreaks of infectious diseases or natural disasters) in
particular countries. This information, which can change from day to day, is obtainable by
telephoning (01) 408 2833.
Assistance in cases of disputed custody of children
Although the issues in such cases are determined primarily by the law and the courts in Ireland and
abroad, the Department, Embassies and Consulates will try to respond positively to requests from Irish
spouses for assistance when marriages between Irish citizens and foreign nationals break down and
the custody of children is in dispute. In these situations the Department’s main concern is the welfare
of the children who are Irish citizens. Irish spouses who contact the Department will be given
information on the legal situation and on some of the practical options available to them but they will
always be strongly advised to consult lawyers. Embassies and Consulates will assist in selecting
suitable lawyers. If necessary, they will also help Irish spouses in their dealings with the courts and
other authorities in countries which are not English-speaking. Further information is available from
the Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408 2320.
Inquiries about the welfare or whereabouts of Irish citizens abroad
The Department, Embassies and Consulates will assist in making inquiries about the welfare or
whereabouts of Irish people abroad when such inquiries are based on genuine humanitarian
concerns of inquirers with identifiably close relationships with such people and provided their
privacy is protected. Further information is available from the Consular Section, telephone: (01)
408 2876
Authenticating and legalising signatures on documents
The Department will facilitate the acceptance in foreign countries of public documents executed in Ireland
by authenticating the seals or signatures of officials of a number of authorities in Ireland (e.g. Supreme
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Court Office, other Government Departments, General Register Office) and affixing Apostilles under the
1961 Hague Convention. There is a statutory fee of €20 for an Apostille, €15 for other authentication or
€10 (if the document relates to merchandise exports) for this service. Further information is available
from the Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408 2174.
Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad will certify the genuineness of (i.e. legalise) signatures on
foreign documents for production in Ireland. There is a statutory charge of €15 for this service.
Administering oaths, taking affidavits and doing notarial acts
Officials of Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad are empowered by the Diplomatic and
Consular Officers (Provision of Services) Act, 1993 to administer oaths, take affidavits and do any
notarial act which a notary public in Ireland can do. Further information is available from the
Consular Section, telephone: (01) 408 2374.
Issuing certificates of freedom to marry abroad

Irish citizens resident in Ireland intending to get married in certain foreign countries, including
most continental European countries, and who have to produce certificates of freedom to marry
(certificates de coutume) in that connection, may obtain these certificates from the Consular
Section of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Irish citizens resident in other countries may obtain
such certificates from an Irish Embassy or Consulate. The applicant must make a statutory
declaration and complete a questionnaire, both on standard forms, and pay a statutory fee of €20.
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11.4 SERVICES RELATING TO IRISH CITIZENSHIP
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Acts, 1956 to 2004 are administered by the Department of
Justice, Equality and Law Reform but the Department of Foreign Affairs and Embassies and
Consulates abroad have functions with regard to:
• the processing of applications for Irish citizenship by Foreign Births Registration (Section
27 of the 1956 Act);
• the lodgement of declarations by foreign spouses of Irish citizens accepting Irish citizenship
as their post-nuptial citizenship (Section 8 of the 1956 Act as amended by Section 3 of the
1986 Act and Section 4 of the 2001 Act)
• the annual lodgement of declarations of intention to retain Irish citizenship by naturalised
Irish citizens living abroad (Section 19(1)(c) of the 1956 Act), and
• the lodgement of declarations of alienage (Section 21 of the 1956 Act as amended by Section
7 of the 1986 Act).
Foreign Births Registration
A person born outside Ireland who at the time of his/her birth had a parent who was an Irish citizen
otherwise than by birth in Ireland may become an Irish citizen by application for “foreign births
registration” at an Irish Embassy or Consulate in the country where he/she normally resides or at the
Department of Foreign Affairs if living in Ireland. Application is made by presenting a standard form,
two passport-sized photographs and a statutory fee of €125 (if over 18) or €40 (if under 18). Certified
copies of entries in a Foreign Births Entry Book at an Embassy or Consulate or in the Foreign Births
Register at the Department may be obtained on payment of a statutory fee of €2.50. Where registration
is being sought on the basis of a grandparent born in Ireland, documentary evidence of descent (birth,
marriage and death certificates) is required. Further information is available from the Consular
Post-nuptial citizenship
A spouse of an Irish citizen by birth in Ireland or descent from a person born in Ireland is entitled
to apply to become an Irish citizen from the third anniversary of the marriage onwards provided
the marriage still subsists and the couple are living together. Application is done by the non-Irish
spouse making, in a prescribed form, a declaration of acceptance of Irish citizenship as post-
nuptial citizenship and by the Irish spouse swearing an affidavit that they are living together as
husband and wife. These forms, along with three passport-sized photographs of each spouse and
supporting documentary evidence, may be lodged with an Irish Embassy or Consulate by couples
residing abroad or direct with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform by couples
residing in Ireland. A statutory fee of €126.97 is paid direct to that Department in all cases. Close
checks are made to eliminate fraudulent applications. In accordance with section 5 of the Irish
Nationality and Citizenship Act, 2001, from 30 November, 2005 the conditions to be fulfilled by
an applicant for Irish citizenship through marriage to an Irish citizen will include that he/she will
have had, at the time of the application, a period of one year’s continuous residence in the island of
Ireland and, during the four years immediately preceding that period, a total residence in the island
amounting to two years. All applications will then be made direct to the Department of Justice,
Declarations of intention to retain Irish citizenship
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Naturalised Irish citizens residing outside Ireland should register annually in a prescribed form
their names and declarations of their intention to retain Irish citizenship with an Irish Embassy or
Consulate or direct with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in Dublin.
Under Section 19(1)(c) of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956 the Minister may revoke
a certificate of naturalisation if he/she is satisfied that the person to whom it is granted has been
resident outside Ireland for a continuous period of seven years and during that period has not so
registered annually.
Declarations of alienage
An Irish citizen of full age about to become a citizen of another country who for that reason wishes
to renounce his/her Irish citizenship may do so if resident outside Ireland by lodging, direct or
through an Irish Embassy or Consulate, a “declaration of alienage” with the Minister for Justice,
Further information
Services relating to Irish citizenship is available in Part 2 of the Department’s “Consular
2320.
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within the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and this agency is responsible for
processing all visa applications made within Ireland . The public office is located at 13/14 Burgh
Quay, Dublin 2. See www.justice.ie for other contact details.
12.1 ISSUING VISAS
The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has responsibility for immigration policy and
requires nationals of certain countries to have visas before coming or returning to Ireland.
Embassies and Consulates abroad accept and check applications presented on the standard
application form associated with which are detailed information and instructions. The completed
form should be accompanied by passports, the relevant supporting documentary evidence, three
passport-sized photographs and the relevant fee. In certain cases, a communication fee may also
be charged.
Embassies have “delegated sanction” to take decisions on applications from certain categories of
people such as Government officials, diplomats, business people, clergy, people prominent in the
artistic, medical, scientific or academic fields, highly-skilled applicants for working visas, holders
of work permits or prospective employees coming to Ireland for interviews. Other applications are
referred to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform for decision.
Visa fees are waived in the case of spouses and dependants of Irish and other E.U. nationals.
Otherwise they may be waived only where visas are issued:
• for and at the request of any official or public authority
• for or on behalf of a person who is in straitened circumstances or where the levying of a fee
would for other reasons constitute a serious hardship, or
• for official purposes or for reasons of public policy.
Forms and further information are available from Embassies or Consulates or from the Visa
Office, 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2. or from www.justice.ie or www.dfa.ie
12.2 WORKING IN IRELAND
Nationals of country which are not a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and wish to
work in Ireland, require authorisation to do so. For most types of employment, a non-EEA
national requires a Work Permit. Full information on work is available from the Department of
Enterprise, Trade and Employment’s website http://www.entemp.ie/labour/workpermits/ or by
telephone at 01 6313333 or LoCall: 1890 201 616.
Please note that only an employer can apply for a work permit on behalf of a prospective
employee.
Upon receipt of a work permit, a visa-required national can apply with his/her Work Permit for an
"Employment" visa through their local Irish Embassy or Consulate.
12.3 WORKING VISA AND WORK AUTHORISATION

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The growth of the Irish economy in recent years is resulting in shortages of skilled employees in
some sectors such as information and computing technologies, construction professionals and
across a broad range of medical, health and social care professions (including Medical
Practitioners, nurses, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, radiographers,
physiotherapists, social workers).
To facilitate the recruitment of suitably qualified people from non-EEA countries for designated
sectors (see below for list of sectors) of the employment market where skill shortages are
particularly acute, a Working Visa and Work Authorisation scheme has been introduced. This
makes it possible for prospective employees with job offers from employers in Ireland to obtain
immigration and employment clearance in advance from Irish Embassies and Consulates. (The
issue of a Working Visa or Work Authorisation does not give the holder an automatic right to enter
Ireland as Immigration Officers retain discretion in specified circumstances to refuse entry to any
non-national.)
Applications for Working Visas and Work Authorisations are accepted from persons outside the
country only. Applications must normally be made through the Irish Embassy/Consulate in the
applicant's country of permanent residence and applicants may be required to attend for personal
interview.
Working Visa
A visa-required national, i.e. the holder of the passport of a country which requires a visa to enter
Ireland, who has an offer from an employer in Ireland of employment in one of the designated sectors
may be given a Working Visa by an Irish Embassy/Consulate.
Work Authorisation
The holder of the passport of a country who does not require a visa ot enter Ireland, who has an
offer from an employer in Ireland of employment in one of the designated sectors, may be given a
Work Authorisation by an Irish Embassy or Consulate.
Periods of validity
A Working Visa or Work Authorisation is usually valid for two years - three months in the case of
a Candidate Nurses.
An information leaflet on Working Visas and Work Authorisations together with the relevant
application forms can be found on the Department’s website www.dfa.ie and are also availabel
from irsh Embassies and Consulates. The website will also proivde a list of countries whose
passport holders do not require visas to enter ireland.
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12.4 Skills Categories currently covered by the Work Visa and Work Authorisation Schemes
At present the designated categories are:
Information and Computing Professionals

• Information and computing technologies professionals
• Information and computing technologies technicians
Construction Professionals
• Architects, including architectural technicians/technologists
• Construction engineers, including engineering technicians
• Quantity surveyors and Building surveyors
• Town planners;
Medical Professionals
• Medical Practitioners
• Registered Nurses
• Dentists, and
• the following specified professionals in the Public Health and Social Care sectors, including
voluntary bodies:
Diagnostic or Therapeutic Radiographer Audiologist

Dietician Social Worker
Occupational Therapist Medical Scientist
Orthoptist Physiotherapist
Medical Physicist Hospital Pharmacist
Psychologist ECG Technician
Speech and Language Therapist Neuropsychological Measurement Technician
Biochemist Cardiac Catheterisation Technician
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14.1. Irish Aid Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations
It has been the policy of successive Irish Governments to work closely with Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations, and in particular with the Irish-based NGOs,
many of whom have a long and distinguished record in providing development and emergency
assistance. The partnership between Irish Aid and NGOs is intended to benefit the NGOs and
their southern partners, through financial support.
The partnership recognises the close contacts which many NGOs have with local communities and
the potential that this creates for reaching poor women and men and enabling them to participate in
development and associated public policy processes. Funding mechanisms are designed in a way
that deepen the partnership between Irish Aid, Irish-based NGOs and southern civil society.
This section outlines the arrangements that apply to funding by Irish Aid of development
programmes and projects implemented by NGOs and civil society organisations.
The flapship programme of the Civil Society Section, Irish Aid, is the Multi-annual Programme
Scheme (MAPS) which channels in the region of €50million per annum to Christian Aid, Concern,
GOAL, Self Help Development International and Trócaire. This scheme provides multi-annual
funding for programmatic interventions; it facilitates partnership with southern civil society and
encourages local ownership of development processes.
Participation of organisations in MAPS is by invitation; organisations are invited to submit

proposals for funding. The guidelines for this scheme have been redesigned, based on the
recommendations of an evaluation carried out in 2005. These are currently available on the Irish
Aid’s website – www.irishaid.gov.ie.
In addition, Civil Society Section has responsibility for certain programmes previously managed
by the Agency for Personal Service Overseas (APSO). These include Personnel Funding. The
Section also manages the grant to the Irish Missionary Resource Service Challenge Fund and the
Partnership Fund, which promotes new and innovative links between civil society in Ireland and
the developing world.
A process of rationalising a number of schemes. managed by Civil Society Section, has recently
been completed following consultation with non-governmental organisations. The new Civil
Society Fund (CSF) replaces the different schemes with a single one with different categories. The
CSF simplifies the administration within Civil Society Section and provides a better overview of
the support given to organisations. The new mechanism is now in place and details are available
on the Irish Aid website.
Development Criteria
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The following developmental criteria apply in the appraisal of funding applications submitted to
Irish Aid. These criteria are reflected in the questions asked and information sought from
applicants. The intention is to ensure the best possible use of available resources.
• Reaching the poor: Preference will be given to applications where the intended beneficiaries
are the poor in the location and country in which the project takes place. Project applications
should indicate the measures to be taken to ensure that the poor will benefit. Attention will
also be given to the number of persons expected to benefit and the sustainability of the
interventions.
• Levels of participation: Experience has shown that the likelihood of success is greater if
intended beneficiaries are actively involved in determining their own development.
Therefore, Irish Aid would like to see beneficiaries involved in the initial project idea and in
selecting options and to see evidence of on-going involvement incorporated in all phases of
the project. The beneficiaries “must be in the driving seat”.
• Reaching men and women: Irish Aid is concerned that its development assistance should
reach both women and men in the target community. The appraisal of project proposals
focuses on the extent to which both are involved in the planning, decision-making and
implementation processes and in the benefits. Since women and men have different roles in
society, it is likely that special measures will be necessary to involve women. Projects will be
appraised on the extent to which they address this issue.
• Relevance: The problem to be solved by the project should be consistent with local, regional
and/or national development goals.
• Efficiency: Irish Aid is concerned with achieving the best possible results at least cost and
examines applications in terms of the proposed set up, approach and methods to be used, as
well as actual costs. The means adopted to achieve objectives must be cost effective.
• Effectiveness: Irish Aid assesses applications in terms of their demonstrated potential to

bring lasting benefits to intended beneficiaries and are particularly concerned with the
manner in which the project has been planned, the feasibility and coherence of what is
proposed, procedures for monitoring, and the extent to which possible difficulties have been
anticipated.
• Sustainability: Particular attention is given to the feasibility of the project activities and/or
its benefits being continued after grant aid has been used. This will include examining the
extent to which skills and knowledge of local people will be used, the appropriateness of
technology, possible environmental effects and measures taken to protect and enhance the
environment, the issue of ‘ownership’ of project activities, the level of skill which exists or
will be developed, and the potential for cost recovery and maintenance within the community
concerned, local institutional structures and/or government. The long-term impact on the
beneficiaries is a key issue.
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Irish Aid partnership with NGOs is managed through a range of programmes administered by the
Department of Foreign Affairs. A summary of these programmes is outlined below. Application
forms and guidelines for each programme are available and describe in more detail how and where
to apply for assistance. Copies of these guidelines may be obtained on the website at
www.irishaid.gov.ie or by contacting the Information Section in the Development Cooperation
Directorate, telephone: (01) 408 2423.
Programme and Objectives:
Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Fund

The objective is to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain human dignity during and in the
aftermath of humanitarian crises.
Emergency Preparedness and Post-emergency Rehabilitation Fund (EPPR)

The objective is to assist the most vulnerable people in post-emergency societies to re-establish
their lives and livelihoods, and to support governments to address institutional and human resource
issues with the aim of helping to create conditions that can lead to peaceful, just and inclusive
societies.
Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS)

Civil Society Fund (CSF)

Micro Projects Scheme

In-Country Micro Projects Scheme

The objective is to provide support to local micro projects in countries where there are Irish
Embassies or Development Cooperation Offices.
Human Rights and Democratisation Scheme

The objective is to provide assistance in the development of democratic processes and institutions
and in the protection of human rights.
Irish Missionary Resource Service (IMRS)

The objective is to establish a funding mechanism to support missionary development work, which
was formerly supported by APSO. The IMRS was established on 1 July 2004.
Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia

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The objective is to assist people in poverty in countries of the Balkans, the Commonwealth of
Independent States (former Soviet Union) as they undergo the transition to democracy and recover
from the armed conflicts of the 1990s.
Development Education and Other Education Grant Schemes

The objective is to increase the public understanding of the underlying causes of global inequality
and injustice. It also aims to increase public awareness and public ownership of Ireland’s aid
programme.
Irish Aid Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations
The applicant NGO: Irish Aid

1.Information Studies Guidelines Provides clarification if
required
2.Application Submits application form (following Checks each
guidelines) or required information as application for
set out in Guidelines. Supplies completeness and
supporting information relating to the eligibility
organisation itself as necessary e.g. Acknowledges each
audited accounts, plans and budgets. application & returns
ineligible applications
3. Appraisal Provides additional information, if Assesses each
requested. application on
institutional,
environmental and
developmental criteria
4. Decision All applications are
considered by the
Approvals Committee.
5. Notification Notifies all applicants
of the outcome. Sends
contracts to successful
applicants
6. Payment Signs contract and returns it to Irish Issues payment on
Aid receipt of signed
contract
7.Monitoring Submits reports on project Studies reports
and Evaluation implementation as set out in contract. received and selects
Facilitates evaluation by Irish Aid of projects for further
projects during their implementation evaluation or audit.
or following their completion when
requested to do so by Irish Aid
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13.3 EMERGENCY HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE FUND
Objective
Consistent with the principles and practice of Good Humanitarian Donorship, the objective of the
Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Fund is to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain human
dignity during and in the aftermath of humanitarian crises.
Eligible Agencies
• international aid agencies.

• experience and a successful track record in the effective and efficient delivery of emergency
assistance
• that they have the legal authority necessary to operate in the country concerned.
Eligible Countries
OECD. In exceptional circumstances, other countries may also be considered.
Project activities in:
• provision of water, sanitation, health services emergency feeding programmes and other
basic needs to disaster-affected areas
• distribution of emergency supplies
• refugee support activities
• activities proposed for funding should normally have a timescale for implementation of six
months to one year
• the size of the projects supported varies according to the needs of the situation and the
capacity of the organisation making the application.
• transport and storage costs
• emergency preparedness or post-emergency rehabilitation projects (see details of separate
scheme).
• Human Rights Democratisation Scheme projects
Subject to operational requirements, funding will be allocated on a needs basis with special
provision made for the urgent consideration of proposals in response to sudden-onset humanitarian
emergencies.
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13.4 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND POST-EMERGENCY
REHABILITATION FUND
Objective
The objective of the Emergency Preparedness and Post-Emergency Recovery Fund is to assist the
most vulnerable people in post-emergency societies to re-establish their lives and livelihoods, and
to support governments to address institutional and human resource issues with the aim of helping
to create conditions that can lead to peaceful, just and inclusive societies.
Eligible Agencies
• international aid agencies
• central and local government authorities of developing countries
• agencies in receipt of MAPS funding (see separate scheme) are not eligible to apply for
EPPR funding.

• that they have the legal authority necessary to operate in the country concerned
• that they have the capacity to plan, execute and evaluate projects to the highest standards of
developmental best practice.
Eligible Countries
OECD. However, this scheme does not normally apply to the Irish Aid priority countries (Lesotho,
Ethiopia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Timor Leste, Uganda, Zambia) and South Africa.
Projects/activities which address:
• capacity building for emergency preparedness
• rehabilitation of physical and institutional infrastructure following major emergencies
(Large scale infrastructure projects will not be considered for funding.)
• activities with a short time-scale for implementation (usually one year, with a possibility of
follow-on funding to a maximum of three years).
• running costs
• training, workshops or seminars directly associated with the implementation of the project,
including local NGO capacity building
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• emergency humanitarian assistance in the case of on-going emergencies (see details of
separate scheme)
Subject to operational requirements, funding will be allocated on the basis of four allocation
exercises each year.
The application should be marked “EPPR” and sent to Emergency and Recovery Unit, Department
of Foreign Affairs, Bishop’s Square, Redmond’s Hill, Dublin 2.
A list of the projects funded from the Emergency Preparedness and Post-Emergency Recovery
Fund each year is published in the Irish Aid Report.
Country-specific Funding
Managed by the Emergency and Recovery Section, Irish Aid also provides funding for a number
of other programmes, including for country programmes in Sierra Leone, Liberia and Palestine. A
programme strategy is in place for Palestine and is in the process of being developed for Sierra
Leone and Liberia. Such strategies, once approved, set out the policy parameters of Irish Aid’s
interventions as well as the identity of partner agencies for these interventions. Application and
allocation criteria are similar to EHAF and EPPR funding mechanims.
New Initatives
Irish Aid is also developing a Rapid Response Initiative, which will enhance Ireland’s response to
humanitarian crisis. The Stability Fund which was launched in 2005 provides support to activities
in the area of conflict including peace building, conflict prevention and conflict mitigation which
fall outside the realm of humanitarian assistance.
Funding to Multi-bilateral Organisations

Irish Aid also supports the work of a number of Multibilateral Organisations, including the
African Capacity Building Foundation which is involved in enhancing public sector performance
and effectiveness in Africa; the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research
(CGIAR), an informal association of research centres, which contributes, through research, to
sustainable agriculture for food security in developing countries; the International Labour
Organisation (ILO) which is concerned with improving the situation of people at work and with
creating greater opportunities for everyone to secure decent employment and income; the
Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) and the International Institute of
Education Planning (IIEP).
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13.5 MULTI ANNUAL PROGRAMME SCHEME (MAPS)
Objective
Partnership Agencies
• Eligible NGOs: The NGOs included in the MAPS were selected by Irish Aid on the basis of
the strategic relevance of their particular focus, capacity, and experience in management of
development programmes.
Eligible Projects
Under the terms of agreements, which have been concluded between Irish Aid and the five
participating NGOs, the Government is providing funding of some €54 million in 2006 to support
the long-term development programmes of those agencies in many of the world’s poorest
countries. The Scheme provides a significant injection of funds to programmes aimed at reducing
poverty, improving availability of and access to education, health, water, sanitation, food and
shelter, and, importantly, strengthening the capacity of people in the developing world to pursue
their human, economic and social rights and to live in peace with justice and dignity.
Eligible Countries
In aggregate, Irish Aid MAPS funding supports programmes in the full range of priority sectors in
a total of some 40 countries.
Size of Grants
The amount to be granted to each participating agency will be determined in accordance with:
- The Government’s overall development cooperation budget and the allocation of funds
between the various strands of the programme.
- An analysis of the overall portfolio of funds of each participating agency, ensuring that Irish
Aid’s contribution is balanced by grants from other institutional donors and/or voluntary
contribution.
- ‘Liquidity ratio’ of 70:30 whereby participating agencies are expected to generate 30% of their
total income in the form of voluntary funds raised in Ireland or demonstrate a capacity to do so
incrementally over the period of MAPS.
- The quality of the programme based on the guidelines set out in this document.
- The efficient use and value for money evident in the programme proposal.
NGOs, which participate in the MAPS, are not eligible for separate Irish Aid assistance under the
Civil Society Fund (CSF) Scheme.
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NGOs participating in the MAPS are responsible for planning, control, follow-up and on-going
monitoring of the programme objectives.
Eligibility of Expenditures
The NGOs are responsible for the adequate and efficient allocation of funds in line with the
programme objectives. MAPS covers the following expenditures:
• Head Office personnel costs associated directly with the formulation and development of the
programme strategy. This can include international travel costs.
• Expenditure related directly to implementation of the programme including support for
capacity building of local partners.
• 6% of the total multi-annual programme allocation can be used in respect of Head Office
costs asociated with the programme.
expenditure related to organisational development priorities, based on a specific action plan
and linked to programme priorities.
expenditure related to mainstreaming two Irish Aid cross cutting priorities, based on a
specific action plan and linked to programme priorities.
Reporting
Agencies are required to supply concise annual reports on how the MAPS has been used not later
than three months after the end of the year of operation. The reports shall include the following:
Analysis of overall NGO activities, including:
• Statement of the relationship between the fulfilment of general business results and the ones
obtained through the MAPS
• Statement of both general lessons learnt and specific value added through the partnership
relationship.
Report on interventions:
• Description of the outputs resulting from the overall focus of interventions.
• Highlight any significant changes and developments in strategies, approaches etc., and an
update on any changes in the allocations of funds.
• Description of progress of main on-going activities, major deviations from the plans and
specific lessons learnt.
• Finalised interventions should be reported with a summary of the outcomes, results, and
experiences (from the final report of the programme) compared to initial planning. Special
focus should be given to cost-effectiveness, added value, capacity development, exit strategy,
ownership and long-term sustainability.
• Report on NGO contributions to capacity building or other inputs relevant for the
interventions.
Financial reporting:
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• a summary of funds and resources used in each intervention including volunteer posts,
contributions by the NGO, other donors and Irish Aid
• statistical information for use in Irish Aid’s annual report, specifying activity titles and
disbursements per country and sector.
Dialogue and evaluation and audit

Irish Aid will carry out periodic examinations of accounts and financial reports with an
independent audit towards the end of the programme period.
When required, joint meetings or workshops are arranged to discuss issues of relevance for
participants in the MAPS.
Publicity
programme and where appropriate, at the project site.
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13.6 CIVIL SOCIETY FUND (CSF)
Objective
Eligible Agencies
• Registered charities based in Ireland
• Irish Aid will invite international NGOs and organisations from developing countries to
apply, based on an assessment of strategic priorities and the quality of an organisation’s
programme.
Eligible Projects
• The CSF is designed to be sufficiently flexible to facilitate a broad range of applications,
ranging from projects to be carried out by smaller applicant organisations , to programme
proposals from professionally-staffed civil society organisations.
• The Scheme provides significant funds to projects/programmes aimed at reducing poverty,

improving availability of and access to education, health, water, sanitation, food and shelter,
and, importantly, strengthening the capacity of people in the developing world to pursue their
human, economic and social rights and to live in peace with justice and dignity.
Eligible Countries
• All countries which are designated by the Development Assistance Committee of the OECD
as developing countries.
• training costs
• Administration and management costs up to 6% of the project/programme costs may be
claimed.
Size and Duration of Grant

For applicants which do not qualify for a block grant,??? there will be three funding rounds per
year. There can be up to 3 applications per round per organisation and no more than 5 applications
per organisation per year. These applications may be for multi-annual support (up to three years).
The maximum ceiling for each application is €200,000 per year. In each case, Irish Aid will fund
only up to a maximum of 75% of each application. The maximum annual ceiling for support to
organisations receiving multi-annual project support is €1 million.
The multi-annual block grant can be for a period up to three years. The maximum ceiling for these
grants in 2006 is €1.5m per year.
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Applicants must complete the standard CSF application form, following the guidelines provided,
and send it to Civil Society Fund Scheme, Department of Foreign Affairs, Bishop’s Square,
Redmond Hill, Dublin 2. All applications will be acknowledged after they are checked to ensure
that they are complete and eligible. Ineligible applications will be returned. Applications which are
Appraisal
Appraisal is carried out by Irish Aid staff and external consultants. Projects are rated according to:
• development criteria e.g. reaching the poor, levels of participation, effectiveness, efficiency,
relevance, effects on women and men, sustainability, effects on the environment
• the type of activity proposed
• the experience and capacity of the agency in the country.
Each project is considered on its merits. Irish Aid staff will contact applicants if additional
information or clarification is required. After appraisal all projects are considered by an Advisory
Committee which comprises Irish Aid staff and external experts. The Committee recommends, in
the light of funds available, which projects should receive grant assistance. All applicants will be
informed, in writing, of the decision taken.
Subject to operational requirements, funding will be allocated on the basis of three major
allocation exercises each year.
Payment Procedure
Reporting
Agencies are required to provide Irish Aid with reports on the basis outlined in the CSF guidelines
which are available at www.irishaid.gov.ie. The final report is due not later than three months,
after the end of the contract period. In the case of multi-annual funding a report should be
submitted on an annual basis within three months of the end of each year of funding. A financial
statement must accompany all reports. Annual audited accounts should also be provided. Interim
reports are also welcome.
Publicity
programme and , where appropriate, at project sites.
Report.
13.7 MICRO PROJECTS SCHEME
Objective
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Eligible Agencies
All applicants must show they are recognised by the Revenue Commissioners in Ireland as
charities or produce an Irish tax clearance number (in accordance with current legislation).
Eligible Projects
• Small-scale projects or small components of larger projects.
• Projects in the following sectors: water, sanitation, primary health care, basic education,
training, agriculture and food security, micro-enterprise development.
• Direct project costs
• Capital or equipment costs (when it can be justified as essential to the delivery of the
project)
• Purchase, repair or furnishing of buildings (when it is an integral part of the project)
• Overhead costs up to 6% of the total direct costs funded by Irish Aid
• Costs related to promoting changes in public policy in the developing country to
support the provision of basic services to poor communities
• Individual or family sponsorship;
• Projects undertaken by individuals;
• Interventions that are primarily of a welfare or direct service provision nature (i.e. that are
unsustainable in the absence of long-term external funding from Irish Aid);
• Servicing debt or loans;
• Study or research Fellowships (excluding short-duration training of staff, partners and
beneficiaries within the region);
• Major infrastructural schemes;
• Evangelisation or prosyletisation;
• Emergencies;
• Activities which are essentially development education programmes;
• Retrospective Expenditure (i.e. costs incurred prior to the date of submission of the
application)
Grant Payable
Projects may be funded for up to 75% of eligible costs. The maximum grant is €20,000.
Application Procedures
Guidelines and application instructions for applying for funding of projects under the Micro
Projects Scheme are available from Irish Aid. All applications for funding must follow the format
set out in the application instructions. The purpose of these instructions is to provide guidance for
applicants on Irish Aid’s requirements and priorities and to provide Irish Aid with full details of
the project and evidence of the applicant’s capacity, in order to facilitate the appraisal process.
Administration and Appraisal

125
Applications will be acknowledged by Irish Aid. Consideration of incomplete applications will be
deferred until applicants have provided outstanding information, at the request of Irish Aid. All
applicants will be informed in writing of the outcome of their request.
The appraisal and approval procedures are those of the Civil Society Fund.
Payment Procedure
Reporting
which the Irish Aid grant has been used.
Publicity
Agencies are required to show the amount of assistance received from Irish Aid in their annual
reports and should acknowledge Irish Aid support in all publicity material related to the
programme and,where appropriate, at project sites.
Report.
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13.8 IN-COUNTRY MICRO PROJECTS
Objective
The objective is to support local NGO activity in certain countries where there are Irish Embassies.
Eligible Agencies
• other groups recognised by law and involved in support of the local community.
Eligible Projects
• small-scale projects or small components of larger projects
• projects in the following sectors: water, sanitation, primary health, basic education, training,
rural development, urban community development
• projects which give priority to poverty alleviation, meeting basic needs, income generation
and employment creation, local capacity building, leadership training at community level.
Eligible Countries
Bangladesh, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Egypt, Ghana, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Mexico, Nigeria, Sierra
Leone, Syria and Vietnam.
• training
• on-going running costs.
• costs of expatriate staff
• international travel.
Grant Payable
Irish Aid will fund up to 75% of eligible expenditure on the project. The balance of the cost must be
provided by the applicant agency, through local contributions or from other donors and this may be all or
partly in kind. The maximum grant which will be paid is €26,000.
The Irish Embassy in the country concerned will supply a standard application form to be
completed with basic information about the applicant, previous experience in the country, the
project and its budget. All applications will be acknowledged after they are checked to ensure that
they are complete and eligible. Ineligible applications will be returned. Applications which are
Appraisal
Each project is appraised by Irish Embassy staff. An Embassy official or a representative may visit
the project to see it at first hand. Applicants will be informed as soon as a decision on their request has
been made.
Payment Procedure
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Agencies are required to sign a contract with the Embassy governing payment, reporting, publicity,
and access to information. Payment of the grant is made by the Embassy when the contract is
signed.
Reporting
which the Irish Aid grant has been used. Interim reports are also welcome.
Publicity
Participants are required to give due credit to Irish Aid for the assistance provided.
Evaluation/Audit.
Each year Irish Aid selects a number of projects at random for evaluation and audit. Applicant
agencies which do not comply with the conditions set out by Irish Aid are most unlikely to receive
further assistance. A list of the projects funded under this Scheme each year is published in the
Irish Aid Annual Report.
13.9 IRISH MISSIONARY RESOURCE SERVICE (IMRS)
Irish missionaries continue to carry out development work in some 90 countries. Irish Aid is
strongly supportive of this valuable work. A dedicated Missionary Development Fund was created
in 2002 which is now administered by the Irish Missionary Resource Service (IMRS). This
organisation also administers the personnel co-financing scheme for Catholic missionaries. Details
on funding may be obtained from The Irish Missionary Resource Service, St. Paul’s Retreat,
Mount Argus, Kimmage Road Lower, Dublin 6W or on its website at www.imrs.ie.
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13.10 PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMME FOR EUROPE AND CENTRAL ASIA (PPECA)
Objective
The PPECA Funding Scheme is intended to assist people in poverty in countries of the Balkans
and the Commonwealth of Independent States (former Soviet Union) as they undergo the transition
to democracy and recover from the armed conflicts of the 1990s. The small and medium-sized
projects and programmes that are funded are carried out by Irish, international and local NGOs, by
international intergovernmental organisations, United Nations agencies or in partnership with other
donor countries.
Eligible projects/activities
The programme seeks to address the underlying causes of poverty, alleviate some of the
consequences of poverty in the case of people who are most disadvantaged, assist Government and
civil society capacity-building, contribute to sustainable economic growth and/or promote
democratisation and human rights.
Ineligible expenditure
The following are not supported:
• major infrastructure,
• direct grants or loans to businesses,
• projects that are primarily of a welfare nature,
• sponsorship of individuals or families,
• educational scholarships,
• projects already being assisted under other Irish Aid funding schemes or projects the sole
purpose of which is attendance at conferences or workshops.
Eligible Agencies
• Registered national and international charities
• International organisations including United Nations agencies
• Other organisations/authorities with relevant competence
Registration
All applicants are required to preregister with Irish Aid and complete and return a Pre-qualification
Form, copies of which are available from the relevant Section Programme Countries Section. in
Irish Aid (tel. 4082790/4082801).
Procedures
Funding is normally allocated on the basis of recommendations agreed at meetings of the PPECA
Funding Committee. Each application for funding is considered on its own merits and in the light
of funds available.
Presentation of Project Proposal

In order to have a project proposal considered for funding, the applicants are invited, as part of the
general scrutiny process, to come into the offices of Irish Aid and give a short presentation,
outlining the relevance and value-added of their particular funding proposal.
129
General Criteria:
• coherence with World Bank PRSP or similar national or regional programmes and
established linkage with local, national or regional institutions;
• coordination with relevant organisations, including other donor programmes, operating in the
sector;
• local capacity-building and a clear exit strategy as a fundamental component of the
programme (may be modified in cases of humanitarian assistance); and
• cost effectiveness i.e. substantial numbers of beneficiaries and/or multiplier effect
Checklist
• Applications should be submitted in electronic format only;
• Applications should follow the standard application format;
• The budget should clearly indicate funding by year requested from Irish Aid;
• The budget should include funds provided from other sources and overall cost; and
• Provision should be made for an evaluation as an integral part of the project or programme.
Consideration of applications
Irish Aid may contact an applicant for clarification purposes during the assessment process.
Each application for funding is considered on its own merits and in the light of funds available.
If an application in respect of a project or programme has not previously received funding from
Irish Aid and/or if the applicant has doubts regarding its eligibility for funding, the applicant may
submit a concept note for preliminary consideration and guidance.
Representations
Attempts by applicants to influence the outcome of the process in relation to grant applications will
not be entertained.
Contracts
Successful applicants are required to enter into contracts before any part of a grant is paid.
Payment is made by electronic funds transfer to a bank account.
Finance
An itemised budget must be provided in addition to detailed costings. All amounts should be
expressed in Euro.
Reporting
Short reports should be submitted at yearly intervals or on completion of one-year projects.
Reports should cover:
• aims and objectives;
• inputs;
• activities;
• outcomes and results; and
• impact.
130
Reports should be no longer than five pages and should include financial statements showing
income (including from other donors) and expenditure.
Evaluation
Evaluations should be carried out by independent qualified persons or bodies and copies submitted
to Irish Aid. The cost of the evaluation should be included in the programme proposals. Evaluation
reports should address outputs, results, impacts and lessons learned; the focus should be on
outcomes rather than activities.
Auditing
Irish Aid audits and evaluates a cross-section of projects and programmes. Grant recipients are
required to cooperate with Irish Aid in carrying out evaluations and audits and to provide access to
all relevant documents as requested.
First time applicants should present copies of their most recent audited accounts
and proofs of permission to operate in the relevant countries.
131
13.11 DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION AND OTHER EDUCATION GRANT
SCHEMES
Objective
Development education is an educational process aimed at increasing awareness and understanding
of the rapidly changing, interdependent and unequal world in which we live. The aim of Irish
Aid’s development education policy is to support the mainstreaming of development education
within education in Ireland and the promotion of greater public awareness and understanding of
development issues.
The Development Education Grants Scheme aims to enable education bodies, groups and
organisations to implement development education projects and programmes and to undertake
research. Grants are awarded twice a year.
The Development Education Unit operates Irish Aid’s Fellowship and Training Programme and
other fellowships and supports a programme of Strategic cooperation with Higher Education,
Research and Training Institutes, to promote and support development education at Third Level.
Cross cutting issues

• Capacity Building
• Research
• Links between Ireland and Developing Countries
• Development Education from a Global and Justice Perspective
• Education Resources
Types of Development Education Grants available

• Strategic Priority Fund
• Civil Society Development Education Fund
• Capacity Building Fund
• Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund
Strategic Priority Fund

The Development Education Strategy Plan of Irish Aid sets out as a key objective “to integrate and
support the delivery of development education in selected areas in the formal and non-formal
education sectors.” These areas include:
• Teacher education
• Curriculum support and development at primary and second level
• Youth work
• Community work
• Third level
The Strategic Priority Fund is a multi-annual fund and grants can be applied for on a programme or
project basis. Irish Aid is committed to developing strategies for each of the priority areas of work
and these strategies will inform future funding. Groups and organisations that have developed
work plans in any one or more of the five priority areas above may apply for grants from this fund.
Information is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie or by email from developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
132
Civil Society Development Education Fund
This fund seeks to support civil society groups and organisations that wish to educate and create a
greater understanding of development issues amongst the Irish public. The fund covers education
work over a broad range of development themes and areas, which are in keeping with the
principles and definition of development education set out in the Irish Aid strategy plan.
Information is avaialbe at www.irishaid.gov.ie or by email from developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
Capacity Building Fund

Irish Aid sees the strengthening of capacity of development education as critical to the future
growth and sustainability of development education in Ireland. Irish Aid wishes to develop a
strategy for such capacity building in consultation and in partnership with organisations and with
groups in that sector. Arising from this, funds are made available to groups who can contribute to
the delivery of this strategy. Information is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie or by email from
developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
Grant Duration
All funds (except the Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund) can be applied for on the basis of
either a project lasting no longer than a year or a multi-annual programme. Please note that a one
year project under the Strategic Priority Fund requires consultation with Development Education
Unit.
Current Grant Types
Multi-Annual Programme
• Rationale: Grants facilitate groups and organisations undertaking substantive development
education work, based on a strategic and long-term vision
• Eligibility: Organisations or groups with a proven track record in the delivery of
• Duration: Minimum two years, maximum three years
• Types of initiatives:
A programme may comprise a number of projects or activities which contribute to the overall
programme aim or a single project. Such initiatives can fall within either the Civil Society
Development Education Fund or Strategic Priority Fund. In cases where a programme
covers areas relevant to the Strategic Priority Fund and the Civil Society Fund, one
application suffices. All programme applications should integrate a capacity
building/organisational development and training (ODT) component into the work. This can
be funded as part of the overall programme of work (to a limit of 15% of the overall budget).
• Grant levels: Minimum grant awarded of €50,000 a year.
Projects
• Rationale: Grants facilitate groups or organisations in carrying out stand-alone projects in
• Eligibility: Organisations or groups undertaking development education activities or including a
development education perspective in their education work
• Duration: Maximum one year (except projects which qualify for Strategic Priority Funding)
• Types of initiatives: Projects as outlined above under ‘grant types’
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• Grant levels: Minimum grant awarded €5,000 a year
Ineligibility for Development Education funding

• Cultural events, unless part of a wider development education project
• Welfare projects, such as provision of language classes or information on legal and social
welfare rights
• Education Projects, of which the primary aim is to raise the profile of an organisation or to
raise funds
• Exposure visits overseas, unless part of a wider development education project and where it
can be demonstrated that the learning will benefit a broad group of people in Ireland
• Libraries or resource centres, unless part of a wider development education programme
• Projects relating to the environment, peace, culture or anti racism, where the focus is
exclusively or mainly concerned with problems and solutions in Ireland
• One off or stand alone school talks or workshops unless linked to a broader education
programme
• Grants for work in individual schools. (However Irish Aid would welcome applications from
school cluster networks or schools working in partnership with other groups or organisations)
Simon Cumbers Media Challenge Fund

The Simon Cumbers Media Challenge fund supports media personnel and development education
organisations that wish to develop radio programmes, print, photo or new media projects, aimed at
exploring development issues with emphasis on links between local and global. Applications for
the fund are accepted once a year in November. Information is available at www.irishaid.gov.ie or
by email from developmenteducation@dfa.ie.
Fellowships
The Development Education Unit also has responsibility for the Irish Aid Fellowship and Training
Programme. Irish Aid has made a significant investment, through the Irish Aid Fellowship
Training Programme, in further education and training aimed at capacity building of policy makers
and development practitioners in its partner countries in Africa. The programme is implemented in
partnership with the Irish Council for Overseas Students (ICOS) and Kimmage Development
Studies Centre. Successful applicants are enrolled in a wide range of post-graduate diploma and
degree courses in third-level colleges in Ireland or in their home regions.
The Development Education Unit has responsibility for the recently established academic
fellowship in memory of the late Swedish Foreign Minister, Anna Lindh. The purpose of the Anna
Lindh fellowship is to encourage research into and raise public awareness of the role of the EU in
conflict prevention and conflict resolution.
134
The Courtney Fellowship was set up by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2004 to commemorate
the late Archbishop Michael Courtney. It facilitates one Burundian student per year who wishes to
study in Ireland. The Fellowship is aimed at Masters level study in governance or peace studies.
Irish Aid Immersion and Linking Scheme

The overall objective of the scheme will be to support schools linking and immersion as a means
of raising awareness of development issues among students and teachers in the second level school
sector in Ireland.. In line with Irish Aid’s broader development education strategy, the scheme will
seek to support the building of relationships, based on mutual learning between schools in Ireland
and in developing countries. It is intended to have this new programme in place by early 2007.
Programme of Strategic Cooperation with the Higher Education, Training and Research
Institutes
The proposed programme of cooperation is intended to complement the extensive range of
activities, implemented in cooperation with Irish Higher Education, Research and Training
Institutes that are already funded by Irish Aid.
Whilst a key objective is capacity strengthening in countries where Irish Aid works, the
programme is based on a collaborative approach between Irish Aid and participating higher
education, research and training institutions in Ireland and in developing countries.
The Development Education Unit of Irish Aid will be responsible for the overall management and
oversight of the programme. The goal is to have the programme in place by early 2007.
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14.1 EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border
Counties of Ireland (Peace II)
Background
The EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border Regions of
Ireland (Peace II) is a distinctive European Union Structural Funds Programme aimed at promoting
reconciliation and helping to build a more peaceful and stable society. Initially for four years
(2000-2004) the Peace II Programme was extended for a further two years until 2006.
Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)

The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), one of the six all-island Implementation Bodies
established on 2 December 1999 under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement, is the Managing
Authority for the Programme. The Department of Foreign Affairs is represented on the Programme
Monitoring Committee in an advisory capacity.
Further Information
Further information on this programme may be obtained by contacting the SEUPB at:
EU House,
6 Cromac Place,
BELFAST BT7 2JB
Tel: +44 28 9026 6660
Fax: +44 28 9026 6661
Email: info@seupb.org
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14.2 THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS RECONCILIATION FUND
Background
The Department of Foreign Affairs has at its disposal, within its budget, a Reconciliation Fund for
North-South and Anglo-Irish Cooperation. Its purpose is to assist organisations involved in
reconciliation work and efforts to create better understanding between people in both parts of
Ireland and between Ireland and Britain. The amount available in 2005 is €2,631,000. .
Applications for assistance will be considered from organisations committed to:
• reconciliation through education, courses, dialogue and culture
• developing and maintaining meaningful cross-border links
• promoting improved Anglo-Irish relations
• promoting cross-community and inter-denominational activities
• promotion of tolerance and acceptance of cultural diversity
• academic research aimed at promoting reconciliation
• contribution to political reconciliation.
How to Apply
Assistance is provided on a once-off basis. Organisations may apply for and receive assistance
each year. It may be used for a specific project or as a contribution towards general running costs.
Applications must be made on the standard application forms available from the Department of
Foreign Affairs.
Each application will be considered in the first round of funding following receipt of the
application. Applications should be addressed to:
The Reconciliation Fund,

Anglo-Irish Division,
80 St. Stephen’s Green,
Dublin 2.
Telephone: (01) 408 2273
Decisions
Decisions are made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on foot of recommendations made by the
Interdepartmental Advisory Committee on the Reconciliation Fund. The decisions are reached on
the basis of the eligibility criteria outlined above. Other factors taken into account are the level of
funding available each year and the number and quality of applications submitted. The overriding
aim is to ensure as widespread and equitable distribution of the fund as possible based on the merit
of the individual proposals. The Minister’s decision is final.
Reporting
An organisation which has received assistance from the Reconciliation Fund must send a report
and Financial Statement describing how the money has been spent to the Department of Foreign
Affairs, not later than 31 December of the year in question. Where the amount exceeds €12,700,
these should be accompanied by a copy of its Annual Audited Accounts.
137
15.1 Díon – Supporting the Irish in Britain
Objective
The mission statement of the Díon Committee is to promote the continued contribution of Irish
people in Britain to British society and to support those voluntary agencies which facilitate access
to welfare and statutory services for members of the Irish community.
Mandate of the Díon Committee
The Díon Committee (from the Irish word for ‘shelter’) was set up in response to concerns about
the situation of Irish emigrants in Britain. Apart from the Chair and Secretary, who are serving in
the Embassy of Ireland in London, the Committee members serve in a voluntary capacity.
Since 1984 the Irish Government has given financial support through the Díon Fund to voluntary
agencies that provide advice and welfare services which facilitate access by vulnerable emigrants
to employment, statutory support, welfare, health and housing entitlements, thereby promoting
social inclusion. Funding is allocated by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the basis of the
recommendations of the Díon Committee.
Díon funding is primarily made as a contribution to the salary costs and associated running costs of
professional workers in front line advice agencies. It is intended to facilitate access to mainstream
funding, rather than be the sole source of funding. This particular focus on supporting the delivery
of front line advisory services will continue to account for the bulk of the Díon fund.
While grant aid may primarily be given to Irish welfare agencies providing front line advice
services, some support may also be given to non-Irish welfare agencies providing a valuable
service to significant numbers of Irish clients and to second-line support services.
Funding is also available for capacity building within the Irish voluntary sector.
Limited funding may be available for capital projects for Irish organisations where a clear need for
enhanced facilities can be shown.
Limited funding may be available for supporting Irish community projects of a cultural or
educational nature which are considered by the Díon Committee to enhance and enrich the Irish
community in Britain by helping to maintain and express Irish identity.
Objectives of the Díon Committee

• To make recommendations to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on grant aid for voluntary
agencies providing front line advisory services and community care for Irish people in
Britain.
• To make recommendations to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on support for Irish
community groups engaged in cultural or educational activities where these help maintain
and express Irish identity.
• To monitor and ensure the effective use of Irish Government funding in Britain;
• To report to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the Irish community in Britain.
• To support equitable access for Irish individuals and organisations to statutory and voluntary
services in Britain;
• To support the professional development of the Irish voluntary sector in Britain and to
encourage best practice and capacity building;
138
• To promote the development of responses from the voluntary sector which reflect the diverse
needs of the Irish community;
• To promote and monitor effective outcomes for Irish service users;
• To promote the sharing of information and resources for the better delivery of services;
• To support Irish community-based cultural or educational activities where these help
maintain and express Irish identity and benefit the Irish community as a whole; and
• To commission or to support research on the needs of the Irish community in Britain.
In recommending grants for front line voluntary agencies, the Díon Committee expects agencies to
be established as registered charities or charitable bodies, and to demonstrate the measures taken
to:
Χ have a formal constitution with identifiable aims and objectives;
Χ operate on a viable basis, keep proper records and audited accounts, and meet statutory
requirements relating to staffing, premises and the services provided;
Χ have a development plan;
Χ assure the quality of the services delivered, including, where possible, adherence to a
recognised Quality Assurance Mark or code of practice;
Χ have a comprehensive equal opportunities policy;
Χ use an effective monitoring system which satisfies the varying information needs, including
outputs and outcomes, of Díon and other funders;
Χ access the full range of statutory services to which clients are entitled;
Χ access alternative sources of funding, both statutory and/or charitable;
Χ develop effective partnerships with agencies providing similar services, and across sectors;
and, if appropriate, with mainstream voluntary sector organisations;
Χ be responsible to a management committee with relevant skills and experience and clearly
defined roles;
Χ ensure appropriate skills and/or qualifications for all staff;
Χ implement training and development strategies for both staff and management committee
members;
Χ encourage the participation of volunteers in the organisation and their training and
management;
Χ develop effective advocacy for service users;
Χ involve service users and facilitate their input to the organisation;
Χ ensure that the agency is providing a service to a significant number of Irish people;
Χ ensure that the project seeking grant-aid will not result in unnecessary duplication of service
in the borough or local area involved; and
Χ identify the means by which culturally sensitive services are provided.
In recommending grants supporting Irish community projects of a cultural or educational nature,

Díon expects agencies to demonstrate the measures taken to:

Χ operate on a viable basis, with a properly constituted committee, and keep proper records and
audited accounts,
Χ have a development plan; and
139
Χ show that the services provided are reaching a significant number of Irish people.
Activities not Eligible for Díon Funding
The following activities are outside Díon's criteria:

• formal academic or educational courses;
• personal study and travel abroad;
• repayment of deficits or loans;
• any kind of party political activities;
• any activity which is the statutory responsibility of the British government, its agencies or a
local council or health authority.
Applications for Díon funding are invited to be submitted to the Díon Committee during the first
quarter of a calender year. Applications are then considered by members of the Díon Committee
during the second quarter. The Committee then submit their recommendations to the Minister for
Foreign Affairs. The Minister generally announces his decisions on grants during July. Further
announcements may be made later in the year.
Applications are available from the Embassy of Ireland in London or on the Services for Emigrants
section of the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Grants from the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Support for Irish Emigrant Groups programme are
given annually to voluntary organisations in the U.S. and Australia which provide information and
advice to Irish emigrants in those countries. Groups in Ireland are also supported in their work in
providing pre-departure information, assisting returning emigrants, enhancing coordination
between emigrant support organisations and offering assistance to Irish prisoners abroad and their
families.
Under the Department’s Supporting Irish Immigration Centres in the US scheme, funding is
directed to support voluntary organizations in the delivery of advice and information to Irish
emigrants in the US, in particular to the more vulnerable and marginalized members of our
community.
Proposals not eligible for consideration under this Scheme will include:
• proposals for lobbying activity;

• projects involving the provision of direct financial assistance to individuals;
• formal academic or educational courses; or
• personal study or travel abroad.
Organisations which assist Irish emigrants may contact the Irish Abroad Unit of the Department of
Foreign Affairs or an Irish diplomatic mission for further information.
Procedures for grant allocation are currently under review and amended schemes will be published
on the Department’s website.
140
Further information is available from the Irish Abroad Unit (telephone 01-408 2739) or Irish
diplomatic missions.
15.1 Díon – Supporting the Irish in Britain
Objective
The mission statement of the Díon Committee is to promote the continued contribution of Irish
people in Britain to British society and to support those voluntary agencies which facilitate access
to welfare and statutory services for members of the Irish community.
Mandate of the Díon Committee
The Díon Committee (from the Irish word for ‘shelter’) was set up in response to concerns about
the situation of Irish emigrants in Britain. Apart from the Chair and Secretary, who are serving in
the Embassy of Ireland in London, the Committee members serve in a voluntary capacity.
Since 1984 the Irish Government has given financial support through the Díon Fund to voluntary
agencies that provide advice and welfare services which facilitate access by vulnerable emigrants
to employment, statutory support, welfare, health and housing entitlements, thereby promoting
social inclusion. Funding is allocated by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the basis of the
recommendations of the Díon Committee.
Díon funding is primarily made as a contribution to the salary costs and associated running costs of
professional workers in front line advice agencies. It is intended to facilitate access to mainstream
funding, rather than be the sole source of funding. This particular focus on supporting the delivery
of front line advisory services will continue to account for the bulk of the Díon fund.
While grant aid may primarily be given to Irish welfare agencies providing front line advice
services, some support may also be given to non-Irish welfare agencies providing a valuable
service to significant numbers of Irish clients and to second-line support services.
Funding is also available for capacity building within the Irish voluntary sector.
Limited funding may be available for capital projects for Irish organisations where a clear need for
enhanced facilities can be shown.
Limited funding may be available for supporting Irish community projects of a cultural or
educational nature which are considered by the Díon Committee to enhance and enrich the Irish
community in Britain by helping to maintain and express Irish identity.
Objectives of the Díon Committee

• To make recommendations to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on grant aid for voluntary
agencies providing front line advisory services and community care for Irish people in
Britain.
• To make recommendations to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on support for Irish
community groups engaged in cultural or educational activities where these help maintain
and express Irish identity.
• To monitor and ensure the effective use of Irish Government funding in Britain;
141
• To report to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the Irish community in Britain.
• To support equitable access for Irish individuals and organisations to statutory and voluntary
services in Britain;
• To support the professional development of the Irish voluntary sector in Britain and to
encourage best practice and capacity building;
• To promote the development of responses from the voluntary sector which reflect the diverse
needs of the Irish community;
• To promote and monitor effective outcomes for Irish service users;
• To promote the sharing of information and resources for the better delivery of services;
• To support Irish community-based cultural or educational activities where these help
maintain and express Irish identity and benefit the Irish community as a whole; and
• To commission or to support research on the needs of the Irish community in Britain.
In recommending grants for front line voluntary agencies, the Díon Committee expects agencies to
be established as registered charities or charitable bodies, and to demonstrate the measures taken
to:
Χ operate on a viable basis, keep proper records and audited accounts, and meet statutory
requirements relating to staffing, premises and the services provided;
Χ have a development plan;
Χ assure the quality of the services delivered, including, where possible, adherence to a
recognised Quality Assurance Mark or code of practice;
Χ have a comprehensive equal opportunities policy;
Χ use an effective monitoring system which satisfies the varying information needs, including
outputs and outcomes, of Díon and other funders;
Χ access the full range of statutory services to which clients are entitled;
Χ access alternative sources of funding, both statutory and/or charitable;
Χ develop effective partnerships with agencies providing similar services, and across sectors;
and, if appropriate, with mainstream voluntary sector organisations;
Χ be responsible to a management committee with relevant skills and experience and clearly
defined roles;
Χ ensure appropriate skills and/or qualifications for all staff;
Χ implement training and development strategies for both staff and management committee
members;
Χ encourage the participation of volunteers in the organisation and their training and
management;
Χ develop effective advocacy for service users;
Χ involve service users and facilitate their input to the organisation;
Χ ensure that the agency is providing a service to a significant number of Irish people;
Χ ensure that the project seeking grant-aid will not result in unnecessary duplication of service
in the borough or local area involved; and
Χ identify the means by which culturally sensitive services are provided.
In recommending grants supporting Irish community projects of a cultural or educational nature,

Díon expects agencies to demonstrate the measures taken to:
142
Χ operate on a viable basis, with a properly constituted committee, and keep proper records and
audited accounts,
Χ have a development plan; and
Χ show that the services provided are reaching a significant number of Irish people.
Activities not Eligible for Díon Funding
The following activities are outside Díon's criteria:

• formal academic or educational courses;
• personal study and travel abroad;
• repayment of deficits or loans;
• any kind of party political activities;
• any activity which is the statutory responsibility of the British government, its agencies or a
local council or health authority.
Applications for Díon funding are invited to be submitted to the Díon Committee during the first
quarter of a calender year. Applications are then considered by members of the Díon Committee
during the second quarter. The Committee then submit their recommendations to the Minister for
Foreign Affairs. The Minister generally announces his decisions on grants during July. Further
announcements may be made later in the year.
Applications are available from the Embassy of Ireland in London or on the Services for Emigrants
section of the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Grants from the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Support for Irish Emigrant Groups programme are
given annually to voluntary organisations in the U.S. and Australia which provide information and
advice to Irish emigrants in those countries. Groups in Ireland are also supported in their work in
providing pre-departure information, assisting returning emigrants, enhancing coordination
between emigrant support organisations and offering assistance to Irish prisoners abroad and their
families.
Under the Department’s Supporting Irish Immigration Centres in the US scheme, funding is
directed to support voluntary organizations in the delivery of advice and information to Irish
emigrants in the US, in particular to the more vulnerable and marginalized members of our
community.
Proposals not eligible for consideration under this Scheme will include:
• proposals for lobbying activity;

• projects involving the provision of direct financial assistance to individuals;
• formal academic or educational courses; or
• personal study or travel abroad.
Organisations which assist Irish emigrants may contact the Irish Abroad Unit of the Department of
Foreign Affairs or an Irish diplomatic mission for further information.
143
Procedures for grant allocation are currently under review and amended schemes will be published
on the Department’s website.
Further information is available from the Irish Abroad Unit (telephone 01-408 2739) or Irish
diplomatic missions.
144
APPENDIX I: SECTION 15 AND SECTION 16 REFERENCE BOOK GLOSSARY
ADVISORY BOARD FOR IRISH AID (ABIA)

The Advisory Board for Irish Aid (formerly, the Advisory Board for Ireland Aid and the Advisory
Board for Development Cooperation Ireland) was established in 2002 to provide general oversight
and advice to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the strategic direction of the Government’s
programme of assistance to developing countries. The members of the Board have a proven
expertise or interest in development cooperation.
AGENDA 2000
Agenda 2000 is the term given to the set of Commission proposals relating to the future financing
and development of Union policies, taking account of the Union’s future enlargement.
AP - Assistant Principal, an administrative grade within the Civil Service.
APPROPRIATION ACCOUNT
An appropriation account is a cash-based account providing details, against the Estimate provision,
of actual payments made and receipts brought to account.
AREA-BASED PROGRAMME (ABP)

Through ABPs, the development co-operation programme within the Department of Foreign Affairs
(known as Irish Aid) works with district authorities in the programme countries on the development
of capacity in each of the services provided at district level (health, education, water and sanitation
etc).
BILATERAL AID PROGRAMME

The Bilateral Aid Programme is the main instrument through which the Irish Government provides
long-term assistance in developing countries. It includes the development programmes in the
priority countries of Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Timor Leste and
Vietnam as well as other programmes with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) such as the
Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS), the Civil Society Fund (CSF) and Development
Education Grant Schemes. The Programme also responds to emergency and humanitarian crises,
natural and man-made, throughout the world.
BILATERAL ECONOMIC RELATIONS

This refers to all aspects of Ireland’s direct economic relations with other countries.
BILATERAL POLITICAL RELATIONS

Bilateral Political Relations are direct diplomatic contacts between two States as opposed to
Multilateral Political Relations which take place in multilateral fora, such as the United Nations
system or the Council of Europe, and involve consultations and negotiations between the entire
membership of the organisation.
BUDGET SUPPORT
Budget Support is a form of programmatic aid, within the Irish Aid programme, in which
(a) Funds are provided in support of a government programme that focuses on growth and
poverty reduction, and transforming institutions, especially budgetary, or
(b) The funds are provided to a partner government to spend using its own financial
management and accountability systems.
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CIVIL SOCIETY FUND (CSF)
The Civil Society Fund (CSF) is designed to provide resources more effectively and efficiently for
the development activities of civil society organisations. The scheme is open to Irish organisations,
although non-Irish civil society organisations also may be invited. The Civil Society Fund and the
Multi-annual Programme Scheme (MAPS) are the main conduits for Irish civil society
organisations to access Irish Aid funding for overseas development work. The Civil Society Fund
is designed to be sufficiently flexible to facilitate a broad range of applications, ranging from
projects to be carried out by smaller applicant organisations, to programme proposals from
professionally-staffed civil society organisations.
COMMON FOREIGN AND SECURITY POLICY (CFSP)

The Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European Union was established by the
Maastricht Treaty of 1992. It requires member States to inform and consult one another on any
matter of foreign and security policy of general interest in order to ensure that their combined
influence is exerted as effectively as possible.
COMMONWEALTH OF INDEPENDENT STATES (CIS).

The Commonwealth of Independent States consists of twelve of the fifteen states of the former
Soviet Union, the exceptions being the three Baltic States. The CIS is headquartered in Minsk,
Belarus. The 11 original member states were Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan,
Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine. In December
1993, Georgia also joined the CIS.
CONSULAR MISSION
A consular mission consists of a state’s consular representation in another state. The exercise of
consular functions can be either by career consular officers or by honorary consular officers.
CONSULAR SERVICES
Consular services involve the provision of advice and assistance to Irish citizens abroad in
circumstances such as death abroad and the return of remains to Ireland; hospitalisation; disputed
child custody; being victim of theft or violent crime; imprisonment; helping to locate missing
relatives; repatriation of citizens in distress; transferring funds to citizens abroad; advising
intending travellers; issuing civil letters of freedom to marry abroad, where required; processing
applications for Irish visas; processing applications from abroad for Irish citizenship based on
marriage; and authentication of signatures and public documents for use abroad.
COUNCIL OF EUROPE
The Council of Europe, based in Strasbourg, is an intergovernmental organisation with forty
member States, including Ireland. The Organisation is concerned with the protection and
promotion of human rights and democracy throughout Europe and with strengthening political,
social, legal and cultural cooperation among its member States. The European Court of Human
Rights, also based in Strasbourg, is an organ of the Council of Europe.
COUNTRY STRATEGY PAPER (CSP)

A CSP is an instrument used by the Irish Aid programme to provide strategic direction to embassy
and HQ staff for the management and development of Ireland’s programme of development co-
operation in a specific country over a three-year period. It is also the means by which the
objectives and content of that programme is communicated to government, donor and other
partners. It guides the preparation of detailed programme proposals and the appraisal of those
proposal documents by the Programme Appraisal and Evaluation Group (PAEG).
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COVENANT ON ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS AND ON CIVIL
AND POLITICAL RIGHTS
These are the two International Covenants on Human Rights which provide protection for
specified rights and freedoms. The Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights recognises,
inter alia, the right to work and to free choice of employment, to fair wages, to form and join trade
unions, to social security and to adequate standards of living conditions. The Covenant on Civil
and Political Rights recognises, inter alia, the right of every human being to life, liberty and
security of person, to privacy, to freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment,
to freedom from slavery, to immunity from arbitrary arrest, to a fair trial, to freedom of thought
and conscience, to freedom of opinion and expression and to freedom of association.
CULTURAL AGREEMENT
A Cultural Agreement is a formal, international agreement between two States to promote
cooperation in the fields of: education: in primary, post-primary and third-level institutions;
science and technology; culture and the arts; media; youth and sport. Cultural Agreements, which
operate on a reciprocal basis, are often implemented through a detailed Work Programme worked
out by the two States.
DFA - Department of Foreign Affairs
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE (DAC) OF THE OECD

The Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation
and Development provides a forum where almost all OECD countries, together with the EU
Commission, review major issues of aid policy and implementation.
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE PEER REVIEW

The Development Assistance Committee (DAC) (see above) conducts periodic reviews of the
individual development cooperation efforts of DAC members. The policies and efforts of each
member are critically examined approximately once every four years. Five or six programmes are
examined annually, The most recent DAC Peer Review of Ireland’s Development Cooperation
Programme took place in 2003.
DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION OFFICES

Development Cooperation Offices are missions of the Department of Foreign Affairs located in
two African countries (Ethiopia, and Uganda) and they have the status of an Embassy. The
Department delivers Irish Aid assistance in Africa through these offices and through its Embassies
in Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia
DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION
Development education is about increasing people’s awareness and understanding of global issues
and of the interdependence of different countries and parts of the world in relation to these issues.
DÍON
The Díon Committee (from the Irish for ‘shelter’) is an advisory committee to the Government on
the Irish community in Britain. The Government provides Díon grants to groups in the voluntary
sector that provide advice and welfare services to Irish emigrants in Britain. Funding is allocated
by the Minister for Foreign Affairs on the basis of the recommendations of the Díon Committee.
147
DIPLOMATIC CORPS
This is the collective term given to the members of the diplomatic staff of Missions accredited to
Ireland and usually entitled to privileges and immunities under the Vienna Convention on
Diplomatic Relations. The Vienna Convention is transposed into Irish law in the Diplomatic
Relations and Immunities Act, 1967.
DIPLOMATIC MISSION
A diplomatic mission consists of the representation of a state in a foreign country usually headed
by an ambassador in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961.
DIPLOMATIC AND OFFICIAL PASSPORTS

A diplomatic passport is a special passport, issued in accordance with the Vienna Convention on
Diplomatic Relations, which indicates to the authorities of other countries that the bearer is a
person of high rank travelling on official Irish Government business.
An official passport is a special passport issued to Irish civil servants travelling on official
Government business in circumstances where a diplomatic passport would not be appropriate.
DRUGS-TERRORISM SECTION
This is the Section in Political Division responsible for international cooperation, particularly in
the United Nations framework, to combat drugs trafficking and terrorism. The Section works
closely with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform in these areas.
EMERGENCY HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE

Emergency humanitarian assistance provides emergency relief to countries currently experiencing
major crises as a result of natural or man-made disasters, e.g. war, drought, famine.
EO - Executive Officer, an administrative grade in the civil service.
EU CHIEFS OF PROTOCOL WORKING GROUP

A working group, meeting within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy,
comprising the Chiefs of Protocol in the Foreign Ministries of the EU member States together with
the European Commission, which meets once every six months, usually in Brussels, to discuss
matters of mutual interest and concern.
EU ENLARGEMENT
The European Union has undergone a number of enlargements since its creation. More and more
countries have joined the first six Member States. The forthcoming accession of Bulgaria and
Romania will complete the Union’s 5th enlargement - by far its biggest to date, increasing its
membership from 15 to 27 Member States. Accession negotiations are underway with Turkey and
Croatia and the Union has made commitments to the countries of the Western Balkans, giving
them a prospect of eventual membership.
EU EXTERNAL RELATIONS
This is the term given to the Union’s relations with non-member States, sometimes called third
countries. These relations are often expressed in formal agreements which are legally binding on
the Union and its member States, on the one hand, and on the third country or countries in
question, on the other hand.
EU FORMAT PASSPORT
This is the format for new passports issued throughout the EU since the end of 1997. It takes
account of the entry into force of the Treaty on European Union.
148
EU INTERNAL POLICIES
The internal policies of the Union derive from competences conferred by the Treaties and cover a
wide range of areas such as agriculture, environment and transport. In accordance with the relevant
Treaty provisions, activities in particular areas are pursued on the basis of these policies.
EU PEACE PROGRAMME
This programme, whose full title is the EU Special Support Programme for Peace and
Reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border Counties, was established by the EU following
the 1994 ceasefire to reinforce progress towards a peaceful and stable society. The programme
seeks to promote peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland and the Border Counties by
increasing economic development, cross border cooperation and by extending social inclusion.
EU WORKING GROUP ON ADMINISTRATIVE AFFAIRS

comprised of officials from EU member States responsible for personnel and administration issues
in their respective Foreign Ministries and which meets on a regular basis to discuss matters of
common interest.
EU WORKING GROUP ON COMMUNICATIONS

comprising officials from the Foreign Ministries of the member States and the European
Commission responsible for dealing at the technical (electronic) level with communications
between EU Foreign Ministries.
EU WORKING PARTY ON ELECTRONIC LINKS

comprising officials of the Foreign Ministries of the member States and the European
Commission, which deals at the technical (electronic) level with communications under Pillar 1 of
the European Union.
EUROPEAN CONVENTION FOR THE PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND

FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS
This is a Treaty of the Council of Europe by which member States undertake to respect certain
human rights, particularly civil and political rights.
EUROPEAN COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS

This is the judicial body of the Council of Europe, based in Strasbourg. The Court plays a role in
ensuring the observance by member States of their obligations under the European Convention for
the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
EUROPEAN DEVELOPMENT FUND

The European Development Fund comprises contributions from Member States to finance
development activities under the Cotonou Agreement, which is a unique partnership between the
European Union and the developing countries of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States.
EXPATRIATE STAFF
This term refers to people working for the Department of Foreign Affairs, under its Irish Aid
programme, in the country which is the recipient of the assistance and who are either Irish
nationals or non-nationals of the country concerned
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FÁS (FORAS ÁISEANNA SAOTHAIR)
FÁS, the Training and Employment Authority, is the State agency charged with principal
responsibility for the operation of training and employment programmes, provision of an
employment/recruitment service, an advisory service for industry and support for cooperative and
community-based enterprise.
FELLOWSHIPS
The Ireland Aid Fellowship Training Programme provides funding for individuals of developing
countries to undertake additional training or further postgraduate studies either in suitable regional
locations, where such opportunities exist, or in Ireland.
0.7% GNP TARGET.

The Government is committed to reaching and sustaining the UN objective of spending 0.7% of
GNP on overseas development aid. The target date for achieving this objective is 2012 with an
interim target of 0.5% to be achieved by 2007.
HAGUE CONFERENCE ON PRIVATE INTERNATIONAL LAW

This is an Intergovernmental conference established in 1955. It works to achieve the progressive
unification of the rules of private international law by the conclusion of treaties.
HEO - Higher Executive Officer, an administrative grade in the civil service.
HONORARY CONSULS
Honorary Consuls are appointed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs with the approval of the host
Government on an honorary basis. Their functions are to assist in providing consular and passport
services to Irish people, to promote Irish economic interests and, if necessary, to provide Irish visa
services to people wishing to visit Ireland.
IAEA
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is the world’s central intergovernmental forum
for cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. It was established under the aegis of the
United Nations in 1957 and at present has 127 member States. Ireland became a member in 1970.
INTERDEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEE ON EMIGRATION

The Interdepartmental Committee on Emigration comprises representatives of Departments and
Government agencies with responsibility for matters relating to emigrants and emigration. It is
chaired by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW

This is generally understood to refer to the branch of law governing the protection of individuals in
times of conflict.
INTERNATIONAL RED CROSS

The International Committee of the Red Cross provides emergency assistance to victims of
conflict, including prisoners, in conflict areas and in occupied territories.
INTERNATIONAL SECURITY POLICY

This refers to Ireland’s policy in relation to international and regional peace and security, in
particular as these are addressed through the security aspects of the EU’s Common Foreign and
Security Policy.
150
IRELAND AID REVIEW
The report of the Ireland Aid Review Committee published in February 2002 which surveyed the
entire landscape of Irish development assistance policy and management and made a series of
recommendations on the way forward.
IRISH MISSIONARY RESOURCE SERVICE (IMRS)

The Irish Missionary Resource Service (IMRS) was established in 2004 to act as an intermediary
between its members working in the developing world and the donor community. Currently the
IMRS has 80 member organisations.
IRISH TREATY SERIES

The Department of Foreign Affairs arranges for international agreements to which Ireland is a
party to be published in the Irish Treaty Series. It is published by the Stationery Office and may be
purchased from the Government Publications Sales Office (see Appendix V).
ICT - Information and Communications Technology.
LAW OF THE SEA

This is a comprehensive regime of law governing ocean space as elaborated principally in the 1982
Law of the Sea Convention.
LEAST DEVELOPED COUNTRY

Least Developed Countries are those assessed as having particularly severe long-term constraints
to development. Inclusion on the list of Least Developed Countries is now assessed on two main
criteria: economic diversity and quality of life.
LOCAL CAPACITY BUILDING

This term is used in a broad sense to encompass all measures designed to promote good
governance and enhance organisational effectiveness, ranging from the reform of national
institutions to the improvement of performance in the lowest-level district and community
agencies.
LOGICAL FRAMEWORK MATRIX

A logical framework matrix constitutes a planning and monitoring tool to assist with the
implementation and management of aid projects.
MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (MAC)

The principal decision-making body within the Department of Foreign Affairs which is comprised
of the most senior officials within the Department.
MAASTRICHT TREATY (TREATY ON EUROPEAN UNION)

The Treaty on European Union, more commonly known as the Maastricht Treaty, was signed in
1992 and came into effect on 1 January 1993, following ratification by all EU member States. The
Treaty established the “European Union” based on the existing European Communities and
supplemented by new provisions for cooperation in the fields of the Common Foreign and Security
Policy (CFSP) and Justice and Home Affairs (JHA).
151
MICRO PROJECTS FUNDING SCHEME
The Micro Projects Funding Scheme supports small projects in the developing world by Irish-
based organisations to address the root causes of poverty in the developing world in a way that is
strategic, cost-effective and consistent with Irish Aid’s programme. Projects may be funded for up
to 75% of eligible costs and the maximum grant is €20,000. This scheme was established in
recognition of the great interest that exists among organisations and communities in Ireland who
want to make their own contribution to development.
MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS (MDGs)

A set of eight international development goals for 2015, adopted by the international community in
the UN Millennium Declaration in September 2000. The Millennium Development Goals set
targets for reductions in poverty, improvements in health and education and protection of the
environment.
MULTI ANNUAL PROGRAMME SCHEME (MAPS)

The Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS) supports partnership agreements between the
Department of Foreign Affairs (under its Irish Aid programme) and five NGOs (Concern, Trócaire,
GOAL, Christian Aid and Self Help Development International), which result in the provision by
the Irish Government of funding of some €54 million in 2006 , to support the long-term
development programmes of the agencies in many of the world’s poorest countries.
MULTI-BILATERAL ASSISTANCE
Under the Irish Aid programme, bilateral contributions are provided to multilateral organisations,
such as the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), the International Institute for
Educational Planning (IIEP) and the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research
(CGIAR). This funding allows Irish Aid to contribute to significant activities in sectors and
countries which it might not otherwise reach. It also provides a useful learning experience for Irish
Aid, enhancing its expertise particularly in terms of lessons that may be applied in its priority
country programmes.
MULTILATERAL DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION

Funding from the Irish Aid programme is also channelled through multilateral organisations, such
as the EU and the UN, which have the capacity to act on a global scale.
NATIONAL REHABILITATION BOARD

The National Rehabilitation Board (NRB) is the State agency which identifies and advises on the
needs of people with disabilities and the policies and services required to meet them. In fulfilling
this function, it develops, coordinates and provides services for people with disabilities, monitors
national standards and promotes recognition of rights and equality of opportunity.
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS (NGOs)

Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) are organisations, independent of Government, working
and pursuing objectives in a specific field. Non-Governmental Organisations are active in a wide
range of sectors such as humanitarian, political, developmental work, human rights, etc.
NON-RESIDENT BASIS
A situation where there is no Irish Embassy or Consulate in a country with which Ireland has
diplomatic relations. Instead, diplomatic relations are covered by an Embassy situated in a third
country.
152
ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT (OECD)
The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) is an intergovernmental
organisation established to promote economic cooperation between industrialised States, to
coordinate development assistance to the Third World and to provide a forum for the resolution of
problems affecting trade and economic growth.
OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE (ODA)

Official Development Assistance is aid provided by official agencies, including State and local
governments, to promote the economic development and welfare of developing countries.
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE)

The OSCE, of which Ireland was a founder member, comprises all the States of Europe together
with the United States and Canada and all of the republics of the former Soviet Union. Its aim is to
serve as an instrument in conflict prevention, crisis management and post conflict rehabilitation in
Europe.
OVERFLIGHTS
This refers to any flight into airspace over the territory of Ireland by foreign military aircraft.
PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE (PFP)

Partnership for Peace is a voluntary and cooperative framework for regional security and
cooperation between NATO and individual non-members of NATO, with a particular focus on
cooperation for peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.
PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMME FOR EUROPE AND CENTRAL ASIA (PPECA)

The Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia (PPECA) is intended to assist people in
poverty in countries of the Balkans and the Commonwealth of Independent States (former Soviet
Union), as they undergo the transition to democracy and recover from the armed conflicts of the
1990s. The small and medium-sized projects and programmes that are funded are carried out by
Irish, international and local NGOs, as well as by international intergovernmental organisations, by
the United Nations agencies or in partnership with other donor countries.
PASSPORT EXPRESS SERVICE

This is a fast and convenient service, provided jointly by the Passport Office and An Post at over
1,000 post offices around Ireland.
PRIVATE INTERNATIONAL LAW

This is a branch of domestic law, also known as Conflicts of Law, which deals with cases which
involve contact with some other national system of law.
PUBLIC INTERNATIONAL LAW

This is a branch of law which regulates the conduct of States and other bodies which have
international personality, for example international organisations, in their relations with each other.
REGISTRY
The unit within the Department of Foreign Affairs responsible for the registration and circulation
of all mail both within the Department and between the Department and its Embassies and
Missions.
153
SECTORAL DEPARTMENTS
This term refers to Government Departments with responsibility for specific sectors of the
economy, e.g. Department of Agriculture and Food.
SIXTH (LEGAL) COMMITTEE OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

This is one of a number of Main Committees established by the UN General Assembly. The
Committee’s primary role relates to the General Assembly’s function, pursuant to Article 13.1(a)
of the Charter of the United Nations, of encouraging the progressive development of international
law and its codification.
STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT INITIATIVE (SMI)

The Strategic Management Initiative was launched by the Government in 1994 with the aim of
reinvigorating the management and performance of the public service through, inter alia, delivering
improved customer service, delegating authority and accountability and reducing red tape.
STAGIAIRE
This term refers to a university student or graduate taken on by an employer for a short period of
time, usually on a paid basis, in order to acquire some experience of working in an environment
related to their area of study.
STATE VISIT
A State Visit is made by a Head of State to another country at the invitation of its own Head of
State.
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Sub-Saharan Africa is the term given to the countries in Africa which lie south of the Sahara
Desert.
TREATY OF AMSTERDAM
The Treaty of Amsterdam was signed by EU Foreign Ministers at Amsterdam on 2 October 1997,
subject to ratification by each member State. The Treaty amends the Treaty on European Union,
the Treaties establishing the European Communities and certain related Acts. The Treaty was
negotiated at an Intergovernmental Conference of the fifteen member States of the EU, attended
also by a representative of the European Commission, which began in March 1996.
UN CONVENTION ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD

This Convention was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1989 and entered into force in
1990. It was ratified by Ireland in 1992. Essentially a bill of rights for children, the Convention is
an authoritative universal definition of children’s rights which are binding upon ratifying States.
The primary focus of the Convention is the best interests of the child. The articles of the
Convention are grouped under three headings
(a) Provision: the right to get one’s basic needs fulfilled;
(b) Protection: the right to be shielded from harmful acts or practices; and
(c) Participation: the right to be heard on decisions affecting one’s own life.
UN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE

This is a body of independent experts which oversees the implementation of the UN Covenant on
Civil and Political Rights. The Committee comprises 18 members and is elected by the States parties
to the Covenant. It examines the reports submitted to it by States under Article 40 of the Covenant
and submits an annual report to the UN General Assembly. The annual report includes a summary of
the discussions of national reports among Committee members and State representatives.
154
Under the Optional Protocol to the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Committee is also
competent to consider communications from individuals alleging violations of the Covenant.
UN SECURITY COUNCIL
Under the UN Charter, the Security Council has primary responsibility for the maintenance of
international peace and security. Ireland was elected on 10th October 2000 to serve as one of the
non-permanent members (of which there are ten) for the term 2001-2002.
UNCITRAL
The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) was established by the
UN General Assembly in 1966 to promote the progressive harmonization and unification of the
law of international trade.
UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is the UN agency which provides assistance,
particularly to developing countries, for the promotion of permanent child health and welfare
services.
UNIDROIT
The International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) is an
intergovernmental organisation, established in 1926. It studies methods for harmonizing and
coordinating private law as between States or groups of States and prepares for progressive
adoption of uniform private law legislation by various States.
WESTERN BALKANS
The Western Balkans region is made up of the countries of the former Yugoslavia - Bosnia and
Herzegovina, Croatia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia
(including Kosovo) - as well as Albania. The European Union reaffirmed the European perspective
of the countries of the Western Balkans at the Thessaloniki Summit in June 2003.
WESTERN EUROPEAN UNION (WEU)

The WEU is a security and defence organisation founded in 1948. Ireland has Observer status at
the WEU, arising from the relationship established between the EU and WEU in the Maastricht
Treaty.
WORLD BANK GROUP

The World Bank Group consists of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development,
the International Development Agency, the International Finance Corporation and the Multilateral
Investment Guarantee Agency, all of which are involved in providing finance and technical
assistance to developing countries to help promote economic development.
WTO
The World Trade Organisation (WTO), based in Geneva, was established as a result of the
Uruguay Round of trade negotiations, replacing GATT as the main international body for the
conduct of international trade and the resolution of international trade disputes.
155
Appendix II
Structure of the Department of Foreign Affairs at Headquarters
Dermot Ahern T.D. - Minister

Noel Treacy T.D. - Minister of State
Conor Lenihan T.D. - Minister of State
Patrick Hennessy Anglo-Irish Division

Assistant Secretary
Mary Whelan Bilateral Economic
Assistant Secretary Relations Division
Cultural Division
Ray Bassett Consular and Passport

Assistant Secretary Division
Adrian O’Neill Corporate Services
Assistant Secretary Division
Ronan Murphy Development

Director General Cooperation Directorate
Dermot Gallagher
Secretary General
Dan Mulhall European Union

Director General Division
Patricia O’Brien Legal Division

Legal Adviser
Rory Montgomery Political Division
Political Director
Kathleen White Protocol Division
Assistant Secretary
(Chief of Protocol)
John Neary Inspection Unit
Assistant Secretary
Richard Moore Press Section
Press Adviser
A full list of the Department’s offices abroad, including Embassies and Consulates, can be
found on the Department’s website: www.dfa.ie
156
APPENDIX III
Contact Details for Department of Foreign Affairs Offices in Ireland and Overseas
Ireland
Main Switch: 478 0822 Website: www.dfa.ie
Iveagh House Minister’s Office, Minister of State’s Office, (European Affairs)
79 -80 St. Stephen’s Green Secretary General’s Office, Anglo Irish Division, Irish Abroad Unit,
Dublin 2 Political Division, Press Office, Protocol Division.
Hainault House Consular Section, Cultural Division, Legal Division, Information
69 - 71 St. Stephen’s Green Section
Dublin 2
76 - 78 Harcourt Street Corporate Services Division, European Union Division
Dublin 2
Bishops Square Minister of State’s Office (ODA and Human Rights), Development
Redmond’s Hill Cooperation Directorate, Bilateral Economic Relations Division,
Dublin 2 Inspection Unit
Molesworth Building Passport Office, Finance Unit
Molesworth Street /Frederick St
Dublin 2
Hatch St Passport Office Project Team
Dublin 2
Balbriggan Passport Office
Co. Dublin
Passport Office (Cork) Passport Office Cork
1A South Mall
Cork
Northern Ireland
British-Irish Intergovernment Secretariat North-South Ministerial Council Joint Secretariat
Windsor House 39 Abbey Street
13th Floor Armagh
9-15 Bedford Street BT61 7EB
Belfast BT2 7EL
Tel: (048) 9044 3927/8 Tel: (048) 3751 8068

Email: biigs@dfa.ie Email: info@n-sministerialcouncil.org
Web: www.northsouthministerialcouncil.org
Offices Overseas
The Department of Foreign Affairs manages a range of Offices overseas including Embassies (which are
based in the capital city of the country in which the are situated), Consulates General (which are staffed by
Department of Foreign Affairs officials and can be found in major cities in Australia, the United Kingdom
and the United States of America) and Honorary Consuls (who are available to provide assistance in the
countries in which they are based).
Contact details for all Irish Embassies, Consulates General and Honorary Consuls are set out below as well
as the contact information for Ireland’s missions to international organisations such as the United Nations
and the European Union and a small number of other Offices abroad. In countries where there is no local
representation, reference is made to the Irish Embassy which is accredited to the country.
Please note that in emergency cases abroad where Ireland has no form of representation in the country in
question, Irish citizens should contact the nearest EU Embassy or the Department’s Consular Division (see
section 5.3 or www.dfa.ie for further information).
157
Country Address Telephone Fax Number Secondary
E-mail Address Accreditations
Website Address
Afghanistan See Iran
Albania See Greece
Algeria See Switzerland
Andorra See Spain
Angola See Mozambique
Antigua and See United Nations New
Barbuda York (PMUN New York)
Argentina Embassy of Ireland 00 54 11 57870801 00 54 11 57870802 Bolivia

Embassy Avenida del Libertador 1068 Chile
Buenos Aries 6th Floor info@irlanda.org.ar Paraguay
C1112ABN Buenos Aires Uruguay
Argentina www.irlanda.org.ar
Armenia See Russia
Australia Embassy of Ireland 00 612 6273 3022 00 612 6273 3741 Fiji
Embassy 20 Arkana Street irishemb@cyberone.com.au New Zealand
Canberra Yarralumla Papua New Guinea
ACT 2600 Solomon Islands
Australia Consulate General of Ireland 00 612 9231 6999 00 612 9231 6254
Consulate General Level 30 consyd@ireland.com
Sydney 400 George Street
Sydney 2000
Australia
Australia Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 61 8 9385 8247 00 61 8 9385 8247
Honorary Consul Floreat
General P.O Box 250
Perth Forum
WA6014
Australia
Australia Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 61 3 9428 1283 00 61 3 9919 1802
Honorary Consul PO Box 14428 jronayne@bigpondnet.au
Melbourne Melbourne City MC
Victoria 8001
Austria Embassy of Ireland 00 431 715 4246 00 431 713 6004
Embassy and Permanent Mission of vienna@dfa.ie
Vienna Ireland to the International
Organisations in Vienna
Rotenturmstrasse 16-18
5th Floor, 1010 Vienna
Azerbaijan See Turkey
Bahrain See Saudi Arabia
Bahrain Honorary Consular Agent 00 973 31 772 8146 00 973 31 772 9403
Honorary Consular P.O. Box 2244 honconbh@batelco.com.bh
Agent Manama
Kingdom of Bahrain
Bangladesh See India

Barbados See PMUN New York
Belarus See Russia
Belgium Embassy of Ireland 00 322 235 6676 00 322 23 56671
Embassy Rue Wiertz 50 Wiertzstraat 00 322 23 56671
Brussels Bruxelles 1050 Brussels brusselsembassy@dfa.ie
Belgium Partnership for Peace 00 322 707 2693 00 322 707 2634
Partnership for Delegation Liaison Office of
Peace Liaison Ireland
Office V-Building
Brussels NATO Headquarters
Brussels 1110
Belgium
Belgium Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 32 3 289 0611 00 32 3 289 0612
Honorary Consul F. Verbiestlaan 38 yvan.rombouts@pandora.be
General B-2650 Edegam
Antwerp Antwerpen
159
Belize See PMUN New York
Bermuda Honorary Consul of Ireland 001 441 295 6574 001 441 292 1196
Honorary Consul Powerscourt Management Ltd
Hamilton P.O Box Hm 2267
Windsor Place
18 Queen Street
Hamilton
Bermuda
Bolivia Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 591 2 2421408 00 591 2 2411873
Honorary Consul Avenida Sanchez amtrac@acelerate.com
La Paz Lima 2326
La Paz
See also Argentina

Bosnia and
See Slovenia
Herzegovina
Botswana Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 267 3905 807 00 267 3905 087
Honorary Consul Breffni House 00 267 395 3077 00 267 395 6721
Gaborone Plot 88 barney@panasonic.co.bw
Gabarone International
Business Park
Gabarone
Postal address:
P.O. Box 20233
Bontleng
Gabarone
Botswana
See also Mozambique
160
Brazil Embassy of Ireland 00 55 61 3248 8800 00 55 61 3248 8816
Embassy SHIS, QL 12, Conjunto 5, irishembassybrasillia@eircom.net
Brasillia Casa 9,
Lago Sul
Brasillia-DF
Brazil
CEP: 71630-255
Brunei See Singapore
Bulgaria Embassy of Ireland 00 359 2 985 3425 00 359 2 983 3302

Embassy Platinum Business Centre
Sofia 26-28 Bacho Kiro Street info@embassyorireland.bg
Sofia 1000
Bulgaria
Burundi See Tanzania
Cambodia See Vietnam
Canada Embassy of Ireland 00 1 613 2336281 00 1 613 233 5835 Jamaica

Embassy Suite 1105 ottawaembassy@dfa.ie
Ottawa 130 Albert Street
Ottawa
Ontario K1P 5G4
Canada Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 1 604 683 9233 00 1 604 683 8402
Honorary Consul 100 West Pender Street irishconsul@telus.net
Vancouver 10th Floor
Vancouver
British Columbia V6B 1R8
161
Honorary Consul 3803-8A Street SW
General Calgary AB
Calgary T2T 3B6
Honorary Consul 45 Harvey Road
General 5th Floor
St John’s St John's
NewFoundland A1C 2G1
Honorary Consul 13 Glenmeadow Crescent
St Albert St.Albert AB
T8N 3A2
Honorary Consul Suite 1210
General 20 Toronto Street
Toronto Toronto
Ontario M5C 2B8
Canada Honorary Consul of Ireland 514 848 7389 514 848 4514
Honorary Consul 1590 Dr. Penrose Avenue cdnirish@concordia.ca
General Montréal
Montréal Quebec H3G 1C5
Chad See PMUN New York
Channel Islands Honorary Consul of Ireland 0044 1534 745 551 00 44 1534 747 120
Honorary Consul La Minou
Jersey La Rue de la Piigeannaire
St Brelade
Jersey JE3 8DE
Channel Islands
Chile Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 56 2 245 6616 00 56 2 245 6636
Honorary Consul Isidora Goyenechea 3162 Miguel@alywinabogados.cl
Santiago Piso 8 Oficina 801
Las Condes
Santiago
See also Argentina
China Embassy of Ireland 00 86 10 653 22691 00 86 10 6532 6857 Mongolia
Embassy 3 Ritan Dong Lu beijing@dfa.ie
Beijing Chaoyang District www.embassyofireland.cn
Beijing 100600
Visa Office 00 8610 6532 00 8610 6532 6956

Ta Yuan Diplomatic Office 6945/71/72/73
Building 2-11-1
14 Liangmahe Nan Lu
Chaoyang District
Beijing 100600
People's Republic of China
China Consulate General of Ireland 00 8621 6279 8729 00 8621 6279 8739
Consulate General Shanghai shanghai@dfa.ie
Shanghai Suite 700A (West Tower)
Shanghai Centre
1376 Nanjing Road West
Shanghai 200040
People's Republic of China
China People's Honorary Consul of Ireland 00852 252 74897 00852 252 01833
Republic of 8F Prince’s Building ireconhk@netvigator.com
Honorary Consul 10 Chater Road
Hong Kong Central, Hong Kong
Colombia Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 57 1 4466114 00 57 1 4466120

Honorary Consul Av De las Americas 56-41 carlos.gomez2@co.smurfitgroup.com
Bogota Bogota consul.irlanda@smurfitkappa.com.co
Colombia
See also Mexico

Congo, Democratic See South Africa
Republic of
Congo, Republic of See PMUN New York
Costa Rica See PMUN New York

Cote d'Ivore See PMUN New York
Croatia Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 385 163 100 25 00 385 1241 3901
Honorary Consul Miramarska 23 (Eurocenter) irish.consulate.zg@inet.hr
Zagreb 10 000 Zagreb
Croatia
See also Slovenia
Cuba See Mexico
Cyprus Embassy of Ireland 00 357 2281 8183 00 357 2266 0050
Embassy 7 Aiantas Street nicosiaembassy@dfa.ie
Nicossia 1082 Nicosia
Cyprus
Postal address:
P.O. Box 23848
1686 Nicosia
Cyprus
Czech Republic Embasy of Ireland 00 420 2575 30061 00 420 2575 31387 Ukraine
Embassy Velvyslanectvi Irska irishembassy@iol.cz
Prague Trziste 13
118 00 Prague 1
Czech Republic
Denmark Embassy of Ireland 00 45 3542 3233 00 45 3543 1858 Iceland
Embassy Ostbanegade 21 irleland@mail.dk
Copenhagen 2100 Copenhagen
Djibouti See PMUN New York
Dominica See PMUN New York
East Timor See Timor Leste
Ecuador Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 593 2 245 1577 00 593 2 226 9862
Honorary Consul Calle Antonio de Ulloa 2651
Quito Quito
164
Egypt Embassy of Ireland 00 20 2 735 8264 00 20 2 736 2863 Jordan
Embassy 3 Abu el-Feda Street 00 20 2 735 8547 irishemb@rite.com Lebanon
Cairo Zamalek www.embassyofireland-cairo.com Sudan
Cairo Syria
Postal Address
P.O. Box 2681
Zamalek
Cairo
Egypt Consulate of Ireland 002 3 4843317/8 002 3 484 3320
Honorary Consul 55 Sultan Hussein Street irlconsulatealx@dataxprs.com.eg
Alexandria Tower A, Second Floor
Azarita
Alexandria
El Salvador Honorary Consul of Ireland 00503 263 8236 00503 263 8237
Honorary Consul Agricola Ind salvadorena S.A
San Salvador Boulevard dek Hipodromo
539
San Salvador
See also Mexico

Enitrea See Tanzania
Estonia Embassy of Ireland 00 372 6811 888 00 372 6811 889
Embassy Vene 2 embassytallinn@eircom.net
Tallin 101 23 Tallinn
Estonia
165
Ethiopa Embassy of Ireland 00 2511 466 5050 00 2511 466 5020
Embassy Debre Zeit Road
Addis Abiba Woreda 20, ireland.emb@ethionet.et
Kebele 40,
House 21
Postal address
P.O. Box 9585
Addis Ababa
Ethiopa
Fiji See Austraila (Canberra)
Finland Embassy of Ireland 00 358 9 646 006 00 358 9 646 022
Embassy Erottajankatu 7A helsinki@dfa.ie
Helsinki 00130 Helsinki
Postal Address
P.L. 33
00131 Helsinki
Finland Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 358 9 228 563 24 00 358 9 228 564 45
Honorary Consul Tammasaarenkatu 1 (5 floor)
Helsinki 00180 Helsinki
France Embassy of Ireland 00 331 4417 6700 00 331 4417 6760 Monaco
Embassy 4 Rue Rude paris@dfa.ie
Paris 75116 Paris
France Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 336 77 69 14 36
Honorary Consul Antibes
General
Antibes
France Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 33 2 33 23 44 44 00 33 2 33 23 44 40
Honorary Consul Gare Maritime Sud shamrock@wanadoo.fr
Cherbourg 50100 Cherbourg
166
France Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 33 6 85 23 12 03 00 33 4 78 56 48 47
Honorary Consul C/o Cirly
General 58 Rue Victor Legrange
Lyon 69007 Lyon
Gambia See PMUN New York
Georgia See Russia
Germany Embassy of Ireland 00 49 30 220 720 00 49 30 220 722 99
Embassy Friedrichstrasse 200 www.botschaft-irland.de
Berlin D-10117 Berlin
Germany Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 49 89 2080 5990 00 49 89 2080 5989
Honorary Consul Denninger Strasse 15 00 49 89 2080 5993
Munich D-81679 Munich
Honorary Consul Feldbrunnenstrasse 43
Hamburg D-20148 Hamburg
Germany Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 49 69 9778 83 883 00 49 69977 883 880
Honorary Consul Graefstr. 99
Frankfurt 60487 Frankfurt
Honorary Consul Frankenforster Strasse 77
Cologne D-51427
Bergisch-Gladbach
Cologne
Ghana Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 233 21 518112 00 233 21 518117
Honorary Consul PW Ghana Ltd 00 233 21 518116 consular@pw-limited.com
Accra 10 Abidjan Avenue
East Legon
Accra
Postal address:
PO Box C2475
Cantonments
Accra
See also Nigeria
167
Greece Embassy of Ireland 00 30 210 723 2771/2 00 30 210 729 3383 Albania
Embassy 7 Leoforos Vasileos athensembassy@dfa.ie Republic of Serbia
Athens Konstantinou
106 74 Athens
Greece Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 30 26610 33411 00 30 26610 36161

Honorary Consul 20A Kapodistriou Street
Corfu 49100 Corfu
Greece Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 30 2810 215 060 00 30 2810 326 200
Honorary Consul Hydrotherm S.A
Crete Leoforos Knosou 278
71409 Iraklion
Crete
Greece Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 30 22410 75655 00 30 22410 22354
Honorary Consul 111 Amerikis Street
Rhodes 85100 Rhodes
Greece Honorary Consul of Ireland 0030 2310 465177 0030 2310 477293
Honorary Consul Pharmagora SA
Thessaloniki P.O. Box 60252 mavroudis@irishconsulate.gr
Thermi-Triadi
57001 Thessaloniki
Greece
Guatemala Honorary Consul of Ireland 00502 2384 9446 00502 2384 9946
Honorary Consul 7 Avienda 14-44
Guatemala Zona 9 irelandgua@gmail.com
La Galeria
Planta Alta
Oficina 15A
01009 Guatemala City
168
Guinea-Bissau See PMUN New York
Guyanna Honorary Consul of Ireland 00592 2269 339 00 592 2269 339
Honorary Consul 10 Bel Air Springs deensh@guyana.net.gy
Georgetown Greater Georgetown
Guyana
Holy See Embassy of Ireland 00 39 06 581 0777 00 39 06 589 5709
Embassy Villa Spada
Via Giacomo Medici 1
00153 Rome
Hungary Embassy of Ireland 00 36 1 301 4960 00 36 1 302 9599 Republic of
Embassy Bank Centre irishembassy@irishembassy.hu Montenegro
Budapest Szabadság tér
1054 Budapest
Iceland Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 354 554 2355 00 354 568 6564
Honorary Consul 106 Asbud
Gardabaer 210 Gardabaer
Iceland
See also Denmark

India Embassy of Ireland 00 91 11 2462 6741 00 91 11 2469 7053 Bangladesh
Embassy 230 Jor Bagh 00 91 11 2462 6743 ireland@ndf.vsnl.net.in Nepal
New Delhi New Delhi 110 003 www.irelandinindia.com Sri Lanka
India Honorary Consul of Ireland 0091 22 6635 5635 0091 22 6639 1945
Honorary Consul Kamanwalla Chambers
General 2nd Floor
Mumbai Sir P.M. Road Fort
Mumbai 400 001
India Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 91 80 2808 2006 00 91 80 2852 3423
Honorary Consul Biocon India Ltd 00 91 80 2808 2808
Bangalore 20th K M Hosur Road
Hebbagodi Bangalore
561 229 Karnataka
Indonesia c/o Jakarta Int. School 00 62 21 769 5142 00 62 21 750 3644
Honorary Consul JI. Terogong Raya 33
Jakarta Jakarta 12430
Postal address:
P.P. Box 1078 JK7
Jakarta 12010
See also Singapore

Iran Embassy of Ireland 00 98 21 2229 7918 00 98 21 2228 6933 Afghanistan
Embassy North Kamranieh Ave Pakistan
Tehran Bonbast Nahid St, No 8
Tehran 19369
Iraq Embassy Temporarily Closed
Israel Embassy of Ireland 00 972 3 696 4166 00 972 3 696 4160
Embassy 3 Daniel Frisch Street
Tel Aviv The Tower 17th Floor telaviv@dfa.ie
Tel Aviv 64731
Italy Embassy of Ireland 00 39 06 6979 121 00 39 06 679 2354 Libya
Embassy Piazza di Campitelli 3 www.ambasciata-irlanda.it San Marino
Rome 00186 Rome
Italy Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 39 25 5187 569 00 39 25 5187 570
Honorary Consul Piazza S.Pietro in Gessate 2
General 20122 Milano
Milan
Jamaica See Canada

Japan Embassy of Ireland 00 81 3 3263 0695 00 81 3 3265 2275
Embassy Ireland House irljapan@gol.com
Tokyo 2-10-7 Kojimachi www.embassy-avenue.jp/ireland/index.htm
Chiyoda-Ku
Tokyo 1020083
170
Jordan Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 962 6 551 6807 00 962 6 551 6804
Honorary Consul Medica Centre Building ireland_consulate@gmk.com.jo
Amman No 4 Mecca Street
Um Uthina
Amman
Jordan
Postal address:
PO Box 306
Amman
11118 Jordan
See Egypt
Kazakhstan See Russia
Kenya Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 254 2 556 647 00 254 2 556 647
Honorary Consul Dante Burba Diesel Workshop irconsul@swiftkenya.com
Nairobi Building
Masai Road
Off Mombasa Road
P.O Box 30659
Nairobi 00100
Kenya
See also Tanzania

Kiribati See PMUN New York
Korea, Democratic See Korea, Republic of
People’s Republic
Korea, Republic of Embassy of Ireland 00 82 2 774 6455 00 82 2 774 6458 Democratic People’s
Embassy Daehan Fire and Marine irelandkor@kornet.net Republic of Korea
Seoul Insurance Building www.irelandhouse-korea.com
15th floor
51-1 Namchang-Dong
chung-Ku
100-778 Seoul
171
Korea, Republic of Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 82 2 751 7114 00 82 2 551 7081
Honorary Consul Head Office
General Korea Air
Seoul CPO Box 864
41-3 Seosonun-Dong
(18th Floor)
Chung Gu
Seoul
Kuwait See Saudi Arabia
Kyrgyzstan See Russia
Laos See Vietnam
Latvia Embassy of Ireland 00 371 703 5286 00 371 703 5323
Embassy Valderama Centrs 632
Riga Kr Valderama iela 21 Irijas.vestnieciba@gmail.com
Riga
LV 1010
Lebanon Honorary Consul General of 00 961 1 863 040 00 961 1 860 076
Honorary Consul Ireland 00 961 1 863 239
General Rue de Chilie
Beirut Kolellat Building Verdun
P.O Box 11 746
Beirut
See also Egypt

Lesotho Embassy of Ireland 00 266 22 314 068 00 266 22 310 028
Embassy Tona-Kholo Road maseruembassy@dfa.ie
Maseru Maseru West
Lesotho
Liberia See Nigeria
Libya See Italy
172
Liechtenstein See Switzerland
Lithuania Embassy of Ireland 00 370 5262 9460 00 370 5262 9462
Embassy Gedimino pr.1 ireland.vilnius@gmail.com
Vilnius LT-01103
Vilnius
Luxembourg Embassy of Ireland 00 352 450 6101 00 352 458 820

Embassy 28 Route d'Arlon luxembourg@dfa.ie
Luxembourg L-1140
Luxembourg
Macedonia The See Slovakia
Former Yugoslavia
Republic of
Malawi Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 265 623 950 00 265 623 353
Honorary Consul Able House 00 265 623 314
Blantyre Chilembwe Road
Private Bag 68
Blantyre
Malaysia Embassy of Ireland 00 60 3 2161 2963 00 60 3 2161 3427 Thailand
Embassy The Amp Walk kualalumpurembassy@dfa.ie
Kuala Lumpur 218 Jalan Ampang
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Commercial Section 00 60 3 2164 0618 00 60 3 2164 0619

The Amp Walk terry.mcparland@enterprise-ireland.com
218 Jalan Ampang www.enterprise-ireland.com
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Maldives See PMUN New York
173
Malta Embassy of Ireland 00 356 21 334 744 00356 21 334 755
Embassy Whitehall Mansions
Valetta Ta’xbiex seafront vallettaembassy@dfa.ie
Ta’xbiex MSD 11
Malta
Malta Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 356 2182 4918 00 356 2182 6548
Honorary Consul Marsovin Limited Chairmans.office@marsovin.com.mt
Masara The Winery
Marsa
Malta
Mauritius See PMUN New York
Mexico Embassy of Ireland 00 5255 5520 5803 00 5255 5520 5892 Colombia
Embassy Cda.Boulevard Avila embajada@irlandia.org.mx Cuba
Mexico City Camacho,76-3 El Salvador
Col. Lomas de Chapultepec Peru
C.P.11000 Mexico D.F Venezuela
Moldova See Romania

Monaco Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 377 93 157 000 00 377 93 159 516
Honorary Consul Le Prince de Galles
5 Avenue des Citronniers
98000 Monaco
See also France

Mongolia See China (Beijing)
Montenegro, See Hungary

Republic of
Morocco Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 212 22 66 03 06 00 212 22 66 03 21
Honorary Consul COPRAGRI Building copragi@iam.net.ma
Casablanca Bd.Moulay Ismail Km 6.3
Route de Rabat
Ain Sebaa
Casablanca
See also Portugal

Mozambique Embassy of Ireland 00 258 21 491 440 00 258 21 493 023 Angola
Embassy Av. Julius Nyerere Botswana
Maputo 3332 Maputo Maputo@dfa.ie
Namibia See Zambia
Nauru See PMUN New York
Nepal See India
Netherlands Embassy of Ireland 00 31 70 363 0993 00 31 70 361 7604
Embassy Dr.Kuyperstraat 9 info@irishembassy.nl
The Hague 2514 BA The Hague www.irishembassy.nl
Netherlands Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 31 10 506 6600 00 31 10 501 9593

Honorary Consul Debussystraat 2
General 3161 WD RHOON
Rotterdam Rotterdam
New Zealand Honorary Consul General of 00 64 9 977 2252 00 64 9 977 2256

Honorary Consul Ireland consul@ireland.co.nz
General Level 7
Auckland Citibank Building
23 Customs Street East
Auckland
Postal address:
P.O. Box 279
Auckland 1001
New Zealand
See also Australia (Canberra)
Nigeria Embassy of Ireland 00 234 9 413 1751 00 234 9 413 1805 Ghana
Embassy Plot 415 Negro Crescent 00 234 9 413 1752 irishembassyabuja@dfa.ie Liberia
Abuja Maitama District visaabuja@dfa.ie Senegal
Abuja www.irishembassy-nigeria.net Sierra Leone
175
Nigeria Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 234 1 262 4820 00 234 1261 5661
Honorary Consul R.C Irving & Co Ltd
Lagos 3-5 Sinari Daranijo Street
Victoria Island Annex
P.O Box 7272
Lagos
Nigeria
Norway Embassy of Ireland 00 47 2201 7200 00 47 2201 7201
Embassy Haakon VII's Gt.1 osloembassy@dfa.ie
Oslo 0244 Oslo
Norway
Oman Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 968 24701 282 00 968 24701 278
Honorary Consul Haggan Haider Darwish 00 968 24797 083
O.C. Centre 00 968 24701 842
8th Floor Suite#807
RUWI Sultanate of Oman
See also Saudi Arabia

Pakistan Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 92 21 920 6654 00 92 21 920 6656
Honorary Consul 29 Ground Floor 00 92 21 920 6655 irishcons@cyber.net.pk
Karachi Sidco Avenue Centre
Moulana Din Mohammad
Wafai Road
Karachi
See also Iran

Palau See PMUN New York
Palestinian National Representative Office 00 970 2 240 6811 00 970 2 240 6816
Authority Al Watania Towers-2nd Floor irishrep@palnet.com
Representative Office Al Bireh
Ramallah
176
Panama Honorary Consul of Ireland 00507 264 6633 00507 264 0269
Honorary Consul Bank Boston Building, 14th irishconspma@online.ie
Panama Floor,
PO Box 1774
Zona 9A
Panama
Papua New Guinea See Australia (Canberra)
Paraguay See Argentina
Peru Honorary Consul of Ireland 00511 2732903 00511 4496289
Honorary Consul Calle Miguel Alegre irishconslperu@yahoo.ca
Lima (entre las cuadras 3 y 4 de la
Av. Villarán)
Urb. Aurora
Miraflores
Lima 18
See also Mexico

Philippines See Singapore
Philippines, The Honorary Consul of Ireland 00632 896 4668 00632 897 8534
Honorary Consul 70 Jupiter Street irishcon@info.com.ph
General Bel Air 1
Manila Makati
Metro Manila
See also Singapore

Poland Embassy of Ireland 00 48 22 8496 633 00 48 22 8498 431
Embassy UI. Mysia 5 ambassada@irlandia.pl
Warsaw 6th Floor www.irlandia.pl
00-496 Warsaw
Poland Honorary Consul of Ireland 004861 853 1894 004861 853 1894
Honorary Consul Kramarska 1 konsulat@irlandia.pl
Poznan Poznan 61-855
Portugal Embassy of Ireland 00 351 21 392 9440 00351 21 397 7363 Morocco
Embassy Rua da Imprensa Lisbon@dfa.ie
Lisbon a Estrela 1-4
1200- 684 Lisbon
Qatar See Saudi Arabia
Romania Embassy of Ireland 0040 21 310 2131 004421 21 311 2285 Moldova
Embassy 50-52 Buzesti Street 0040 21 310 2141
Bucharest Floor 3 bucharestembassy@dfa.ie
Sector 1
Bucharest 011015
Russia Embassy of Ireland 007 495 937 5911 007 495 975 2066 Armenia, Belarus,
Embassy Grokholski Pereulok 5 ireland@co.ru Georgia, Kazakhstan,
Moscow Moscow 129010 Kyrgyzstan,
Uzbekistan, Tajikistan
Visa Office 007 495 937 5900 007 495 937 5902
Embassy of Ireland visaireland@co.ru
Grokholski Pereulok 5
Moscow 129010
(call answered afternoon only)
Rwanda See Uganda

Saint Lucia See PMUN New York
San Marino See Italy
Saudi Arabia Embassy of Ireland 00 966 1 488 2300 00 966 1 488 0927 Bahrain
Embassy Diplomatic Quarter irishembassy@awalnet.sa Kuwait
Riyadh Riyadh www.embassyofireland-riyadh.com Oman
Qatar
Postal Address United Arab Emirates
P.O Box 94349
Riyadh 11693
Serbia, Republic of Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 381 11 638691 00 3811 303 6096
Kosancicev venac 2/III irlgov@eunet.yu
Honorary Consul 11000 Belgrade
Belgrade
See also Greece
Senegal See Nigeria
Seychelles See PMUN New York
178
Sierra Leone Honorary Consul General of 00232 22 222 017 0023222 223 687
Honorary Consul Ireland 00232 22 224 223
General First Floor,
Freetown 8 Rawdon Street
PO Box 234
Freetown
See also Nigeria
Sierra Leone Irish Aid Office 00 232 22 234 130 00 232 22 234 799
Irish Aid Office 45 Spur Road grainne.oneill@dfa.ie
Freetown Freetown
Sierra Leone
Singapore Embassy of Ireland 00 65 6238 7616 00 65 6238 7615 Brunei

Embassy Ireland House Indonesia
Sinapore 541 Orchard Road Ireland@magix.com.sg The Philippines
Liat Towers 8th Floor www.ireland.org.sg Timor Leste
Singapore 238881
Slovakia Embassy of Ireland 00421 2 5930 9611 004212 5443 0690 Former Yugoslav
Embassy Carlton Savoy Building Republic of Macedonia
Bratislava Mostova 2
811 02 Bratislava 1
Slovenia Embassy of Ireland 00 386 1 300 89 70 00 386 1 282 10 96 Bosnia and
Embassy Palaca Kapitelj ljubljanaembassy@dfa.ie Herzegovina
Ljubljana Poljanski nasip 6 Croatia
1000 Ljubljana
Solomon Islands See Australia (Canberra)
South Africa Embassy of Ireland 00 27 12 342 5062 00 27 12 342 4752 Democratic Republic
Embassy Southern Life Plaza pretoria@dfa.ie of Congo
Pretoria 1059 Schoeman Street (Corner www.embassyireland.org.za Zimbabwe
of Festival Street)
Arcadia 0083
Pretoria
179
Cape Town Office 0027 21 4190636 00 27 21 419 0639
LG Building 0027 21 4190637
No. 1 Thibault Square
Long Street
Cape Town
Spain Embassy of Ireland 00 34 91 436 4093 00 34 91 435 1677 Andorra

Embassy Ireland House embajada@irlanda.es Tunisia
Madrid Paseo de la Castellana 46-4
28046 Madrid
Spain Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 34 93 491 5021 00 34 93 490 0986

Honorary Consul Gran Via Carlos III,94 cons.irl@webcat.es
General 08028 Barcelona
Barcelona
Honorary Consul Calle del Castillo 8-4
General 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Tenerife Canary Islands
Honorary Consul Leon y Castillo, 195 1 dcha consuladoiralanda@step.es
Gran Canaria 35004 Las Palmas de Gran
Canaria
Honorary Consul Galerias Santa Monica
Malaga Avenida Las Boliches 15
29640 Feungirola
Malaga
Honorary Consul San Miguel,68 A-7º/8º me.martinez@marrero-henning.com
General 07002 Palma de Mallorca
Mallorca Mallorca
180
Honorary Consul Plaza de Santa cruz 6 irishconsulate@telefonica.net
General 41004 Seville
Seville
Spain Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 34 965 107 485 0034965 113 519
Honorary Consul Ctra. De Madrid, Km 4
Alicante Mercalicante
Apartado de Correros 5146
03007 Alicante
Spain Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 34 944 230 414 0034944 249 032
Honorary Consul C/Elcano rcaira@bartellabogados.com
Bilbao 5 - 1º dcha
48011 Bilbao
Spain Honorary Consul of Ireland 0034981 351 480 0034981 357 983
Honorary Consul Calle Atta del Puerto
Galica Edif.
15401 El Ferrol
Sri Lanka Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 94 11 2587 895 00 94 11 4517 589
Honorary Consul 35 Edward Lane
Colombo Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
See also India

Sudan Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 249 1 8347 2616 00 249 1 8347 1855
Honorary Consul c/o DAL Group HQ
Khartoum Block 1, 5 East,Khartoum II, ronnie.shaoul@dalgroup.com
P.O. Box 1840, Khartoum
11111
See alsoEgypt
Sweden Embassy of Ireland 00 46 8 661 8005 00 46 8 660 1353
Embassy Ostermalmsgatan 97 irish.embassy@swipnet.se
Stockholm P.O Box 10326
100 55 Stockholm
181
Sweden Honorary Consul General of 00 46 31 836 930 00 46 31 812 022
Honorary Consul Ireland stockholmembassy@dfa.ie
General Massans Gata 18
Gothenburg 402 24 Gothenburg
Postal Address:
P.O. Box 5243
S-40224
Gothenburg
Switzerland Embassy of Ireland 00 41 31 352 1442 00 41 31 352 1455 Algeria
Embassy Kirchenfeldstrasse 68 berneembassy@dfa.ie Liechtenstein
Berne CH-3005 Berne
Switzerland Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 41 044 289 2515 00 41 044 289 2550
Honorary Consul Clar Idenstrasse 25
Zurich P.O Box 562
CH-8027 Zurich
Syria Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 963 11 334 2144 00 963 11 222 1320
Honorary Consul PO Box 46
Damascus Damascus
Syria
See also Egypt
Tajikistan See Russia
Tanzania Embassy of Ireland 00 255 22 2602 355 00 255 22 2602 362 Burundi
Embassy 353 Toure Drive daressalaamembassy@dfa.ie Eritrea
Dar-es-Salaam P.O. Box 9612 Kenya
Dar-es-Salaam
Thailand Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 662 677 7500 00 662 677 7501
Honorary Consul 28th Floor, Q. House Lumpini ireland@loxinfo.co.th
Bangkok Building www.irelandinthailand.com
1, South Sathorn Road
Tungmahamek, Sathorn
Bangkok 10120
See also Malaysia

182
Thailand Honorary Consul of Ireland 0066 76 281 273 0066 76 281 273
Honorary Consul 135 / 2 Patak Villa
Phuket Patak Road irelandconsulate.phuket@gmail.com
Rawai
Phuket 83130
Thailand
See also Malaysia
Timor-Leste Representative Office 00 670 3 324880 00 670 3 324881

Representative Office 12 Rua Alferes ireland@arafura.net.au
Dili Duarte Arbiro
Farol
Dili
Timor-Leste
See also Singapore

Trinidad and Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 1868 628 2385 00 1868 628 9049
Tobago Suite A4 Kencita Court irishconsul-tt@wow.net
Honorary Consul 76 Picton Street
Port of Spain Newtown
Port Of Spain
Trinidad and Tobago
Postal Address:
PO Box 1380
Wrightson Road Post Office
Port of Spain
See also PMUN New York

Tunisia Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 216 98 307 364 00 216 71 893 182
Honorary Consul Dalmas SARL Berriche.abdallah@planet.tn
1 Rue Laroussi Haddad
Z.i. Sidi Rezig 2033
See also Spain
Turkey Embassy of Ireland 00 90 312 446 6172 00 90 312 446 8061 Azerbaijan
Embassy Ugur Mumcu Caddesi No 88 ankaraembassy@dfa.ie
Ankara MNG Binasi
Blok B Kat 3
Gaziosmapasa
Ankara 06700
Turkey Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 90 212 482 1862 00 90 212 482 0943
Honorary Consul Ali Riza Gurcan Caddesi www.irlconsulist.com
Istanbul Merter Is Merkezi
No 2/13
Merter
Istanbul
Tuvalu See PMUN New York
Uganda Embassy of Ireland 00 256 41 340 400 00 256 41 344 353 Rwanda
Embassy 25 Yusuf Lule Road kampalaembassy@dfa.ie
Kampala P.O. Box 7791
Kampala
Ukraine Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 380 44 279 2159 00 380 44 270 6487
Honorary Consul 20/21 Sophievska St
Kiev Kiev 01025
See also Czech Republic
184
United Arab See Saudi Arabia
Emirates
United Kingdom Embassy of Ireland 00 44 2072 352 171 00 44 2072 456 961
Embassy 17 Grosvenor Place
London London SW1X 7HR
Passport & Visa Office 00 44 207 225 7700 00 44 2072 257 777
Montpellier House passportlondon@dfa.ie
106 Brompton Road visamail@justice.ie
London SW3 1JJ
United Kingdom Consulate General of Ireland 00 44 2920 662 000 00 44 2920 662 006
Consulate General Brunel House
Cardiff 2 Fitzalan road
Cardiff CF24 0EB
United Kingdom Consulate General of Ireland 00 44 131 226 7711 00 44 131 226 7704
Consulate General 16 Randolph Crescent
Edinburgh Edinburgh EH3 7TT
Uruguay See Argentina
USA Embassy of Ireland 00 1 202 462 3939 00 1 202 232 5993
Embassy 2234 Massachusetts Avenue washingtonembassy@dfa.ie
Washington N.W www.irelandemb.org
Washington D.C. 20008-2849
United States
USA Consulate General of Ireland 00 1 212 319 2555 00 1 212 980 9475
Consulate General Ireland House congenny@aol.com
New York 345 Park Avenue, 17th Floor
New York
NY 10154-0037
Consulate General Chase Building irlcons@aol.com
Boston 535 Boylston Street
Boston MA 02116
Consulate General 400 North Michigan Avenue irishconsulate@sbcglobal.net
Chicago Chicago
IL 60611
Consulate General 100 Pine St. 33rd Floor sanfrancongen@dfa.ie
San Francisco San Francisco
CA 94111
USA Honorary Consul of Ireland 00 1 314 727 1000 00 1 314 727 2960
Honorary Consul 222 South Central Ave
St Louis Suite 1101
St Louis 63105
Missouri
Honorary Consul 2630 Sutton Ct
Houston Houston
Texas 77027
Honorary Consul 920 Schellbourne Street bbrady@nvbell.net
Reno Reno
NV 89511
Honorary Consul 751 Seadrift Drive icla@ireland.com
Los Angeles Huntington Beach
Los Angeles
California 92648 4163
USA Honorary Consul of Ireland 001239 649 1001 001239 649 1972
Honorary Consul C/O Silverio & Hall naples@silveriohall.com
Florida 400 Fifth Ave South
Suite 301
Naples, FL 34102
Florida
Uzbekistan See Russia
Vanuatu See PMUN New York
186
Venezuela Honorary Consul General of 00 58 212 959 8754 00 58 212 959 9049
Honorary Consul Ireland irlconven@canty.net
General Centro Ciudad Comerical
Caracas Tamanaco
Primera Etapa Oficina 504
Chuao Caracas 1080
Venezuela
Postal Address:
CCS 3053
P.O. Box 025323
Miami, FL 33102-5323
See also Mexico
Vietnam Embassy of Ireland 00 84 4 974 3291 00 84 4 974 3295 Cambodia
Embassy Vincom City Towers [8F] smythpdfa@hotmail.com Laos
Hanoi 191 Ba Trieu Street
Hai Ba Trung District
Hanoi
Vietnam
West Bank & Gaza See Palestine Authority

Yemen See PMUN NY
Zambia Embassy of Ireland 00 2601 291 298 00 2601 291 234 Namibia
Embassy 6663 Katima Mulilo Road Malawi
Lusaka Olympia Extension
P.O Box 34923
Lusaka 10101
Zambia
Zimbabwe See South Africa
187
Irish Missions to International Organisations
Mission Address Telephone Fax Number

E-mail Address/
Website Address
European Union Permanent Representation of Ireland to the European Union 00 322 230 8580 00 322 230 3203
89-93 Rue Froissart
1040 Brussels bruprirlprb@dfa.ie
Belgium
Council of Europe Permanent Representative of Ireland to Council of Europe 00 33 3 88 144920 00 33 3 88 144925
15 Avenue da la Liberte
67000 Strasbourg irlprcoe@noos.fr
France
UNESCO/OECD Permanent Delegate to UNESCO/ Permanent Delegate to OECD 00 33 1 4417 6713 00 33 1 4417 6770
12 Avenue Foch
75116 Paris irish.del.paris@wanadoo.fr
France
OSCE Permanent Mission of Ireland to the OSCE 00 43 1 715 7698 26 00 43 1 715 5755
Rotenturmstrasse 16-18
5th Floor
1010, Vienna
Austria
United Nations Permanent Mission of Ireland to The United Nations, New York 00 1 212 421 6934 00 1 212 752 4726
New York 1 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza irlun@undp.org
885 Second Avenue www.un.int/ireland
19th Floor
New York N.Y 10017
United Nations Permanent Mission of Ireland to the United Nations 00 41 22 919 1950 00 44 22 919 1951
Geneva Rue de Moillebeau 58 00 44 22 919 1952
1209 Geveva 2 genevapmun@dfa.ie
Appendix IV
List of Publications and Information Sources
Set out below are details of documents, either published directly by the Department of Foreign
Affairs or by another source, which are relevant to or explain the work performed by the
Department as well as details of where copies of the publications may be obtained. Information
published by the Department (e.g. reports, press releases and statements) may also be available on
the Departments webpage www.dfa.ie.
Press Section disseminates press releases and other information material which are also routinely
forwarded to the media. Information Section publishes information fact sheets on aspects of
Ireland. These are for distribution through Embassies and Consulates, and in response to requests
for information from the public. Ireland in Brief, which is published by the Department and can be
accessed on the website, provides background information on Ireland’s history, geography, culture,
government, economy and international relations
Information concerning the Department of Foreign Affairs is also contained in the State Directory.
This publication, which is available for purchase from the Government Publications Sales Office,
describes, inter alia, the functions, organisation and staffing of Government departments and
agencies including the Department of Foreign Affairs, together with details of the pay and certain
allowances of civil servants.
Title Where Available

General Publications
Strategy Statements of the Department of Foreign Affairs www.dfa.ie
Annual Reports of the Department of Foreign Affairs Change Management Unit
Department of Foreign Affairs: an Introduction (Video) Department of Foreign Affairs.
Customer Charter/Customer Service Action Plans Telephone (01) 408 2246
White Paper on Foreign Policy - Challenges and Government Publications Sales Office,
Opportunities Abroad (1996) Molesworth Street,
Dublin 2.
Telephone (01) 661 3111
White Paper on the Treaty of Nice (2001) Government Publications Sales Office,
Conradh Nice - Páipéar Bán - Achoimre (2001) Sun Alliance House
Molesworth Street
Summary of the White Paper on the Treaty of Nice Dublin 2
Information Guide to the Nice Treaty Ph: 647 6879
Explanatory Guide and leaflet on the European Constitution European Union Division - Tel: 408 2470
Report on Ireland’s Presidency of the European Union, 2004
White Paper on the European Constitution European Union Division - Tel: 408 2470
An Action Programme for the Millennium (1997) Government Publications Sales Office
Anglo-Irish Division
The Anglo-Irish Agreement (November 1985) Government Publications Sales Office
The Joint Declaration (December 1993) Anglo-Irish Division, - Tel: (01) 408 2286
A New Framework for Agreement (February 1995) Anglo-Irish Division, - Tel: (01) 408 2286
The Joint Communique (February 1996)
The Ground Rules Document (April 1996) Anglo-Irish Division, - Tel: (01) 408 2286
Propositions on Heads of Agreement and Joint Statement Anglo-Irish Division, - Tel: (01) 408 2286
by the British and Irish Governments (January 1998)
Legal Division
Irish Treaty Series Government Publications Sales Office
Molesworth Street, Dublin 2.
Telephone (01) 647 6879
Development Cooperation Directorate
Irish Aid produces a wide range of publications covering various facets of their work. Details are available on the
Irish Aid website www.irishaid.gov.ie or from the Information Section, Irish Aid, Department of Foreign Affairs,
Bishop’s Square, Redmond’s Hill, Dublin 2. Telephone (01) 408 2903
Political Division
White Paper on the Treaty of Amsterdam (1998) Government Publications Sales Office
First National Report on the International Covenant on Government Publications Sales Office
Civil and Political Rights, 1992
First National Report under the International Covenant Government Publications Sales Office
on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, 1996
Second National Report under the International Covenant on Government Publications Sales Office
Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, 2000
First National Report on the UN Convention on the Rights Government Publications Sales Office
of the Child, 1996.
Second National Report under the International Covenant on Government Publications Sales Office
Civil and Political Rights, 1998
Second State Report under the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities
Department of Foreign Affairs Fourth Annual NGO Forum Human Rights Unit,
on Human Rights (2002) Political Division
Department of Foreign Affairs Fifth Annual NGO Forum on Human Rights Unit,
Human Rights (2004) Political Division
Department of Foreign Affairs Sixth Annual Human Rights Unit,
NGO Forum on Human Rights (2005) Political Division
Consular and Passport Division
Passport Application Forms • Any Garda Station or any post office offering the
Passport Express service
• Passport Office,
1(a) South Mall,
Cork.
Telephone: (021) 494 4700
Freephone: 1890 426 900
Fax: (021) 427 5770
• Passport Office,
Setanta Centre,
Molesworth Street,
Dublin 2.
Telephone: (01) 671 1633
Freephone: 1890 426 888
• Embassies and Consulates abroad (See Appendix

IIII)
Visa Application Forms Embassies and Consulates abroad (See Appendix IIII)
Report of the Task force on Policy regarding Emigrants www.dfa.ie
Díon Committee Stategic Plan 2006 www.dfa.ie
190

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The Department of Foreign Affairs

The Freedom of Information Acts 1997 and 2003

Section 15 and 16 Reference Books

A Guide to the Functions of, and Records held by, the

2. HOW TO GET INFORMATION UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACTS

2.1 Applications under the FOI Acts

3.1 Application Fees

4. THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

4.1 Mission Statement

5. STRUCTURAL BREAKDOWN BY DIVISION OF THE DEPARTMENT

5.1 ANGLO-IRISH DIVISION

5.2 BILATERAL ECONOMIC RELATIONS DIVISION

5.3 CONSULAR AND PASSPORT DIVISION

5.5 CULTURAL DIVISION

5.6 DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION DIRECTORATE

5.7 EUROPEAN UNION DIVISION

5.8 INSPECTION UNIT

5.9 LEGAL DIVISION

5.10 POLITICAL DIVISION

5.11 PRESS SECTION

5.12 PROTOCOL DIVISION

5.13 DIPLOMATIC NETWORK

7. RECRUITMENT AND EMPLOYMENT OF STAFF

7.1 Recruitment to the Department of Foreign Affairs

8. CONTRACTS FOR THE SUPPLY OF GOODS AND SERVICES

9.1 Use of Consultants by the Department

10. ISSUE OF PASSPORTS TO IRISH CITIZENS

11. PROVISION OF CONSULAR SERVICES

11.1 Consular Protection of Irish citizens

12. PROVISION OF VISA SERVICES

12.1 Issuing visas

13. DISBURSEMENT OF BILATERAL AID TO VOLUNTARY GROUPS

13.1 Development Cooperation Ireland Partnership with Non-Governmental Organisations

14.1 EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE II)

15. SUPPORTING IRISH EMIGRANT GROUPS

15.1 Díon - Supporting the Irish in Britain

APPENDIX I: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Freedom of Information Unit,

1.2 Routinely Available Information

• recruitment and employment of staff;

2.1 Applications under the FOI Acts

• access records held by the Department;

The following records come within the scope of the Act:

The FOI Manager

Applications for records under the Freedom of Information Acts must:

2.2 Assistance to persons with a disability

2.3 FoI Decision Making in the Department of Foreign Affairs

2.4 Rights of Review and Appeal

2.5 Internal Review

You may seek an internal review of the initial decision if:

The FOI Manager

2.6 Review by the Information Commissioner

Office of the Information Commissioner

2.7 Policy with regard to Confidentiality and Freedom of Information

The Department of Foreign Affairs undertakes to treat as confidential information provided to it in

Passport Office Consular Services

3.1 Application fees

No fee is payable in cases where applicants are requesting:

• only personal information relating to themselves;

3.2 Internal Review Fees

No fee is payable for an internal review in cases where:

3.3 Review by the Information Commissioner

No fee is payable in cases where: