Department of Foreign AffairsThe mission of the Department is to promote and protect abroad the values, interests and economic well-being of Ireland and its people.
The Department fulfils a diverse range of policy, promotional, programme management, public service, representative and administrative functions in pursuit of this Mission, through its headquarters staff and network of some 80 diplomatic and consular missions abroad.
In particular, the Department provides advice and support to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Ministers of State and the Government on all aspects of foreign policy and on all issues relevant to the promotion of peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland. The Department is responsible for trade promotion strategy and coordination and plays a key role, through its Missions abroad, in advancing Ireland’s economic interests, cultural profile and reputation internationally. It administers a number of programmes, including a major Development Cooperation programme, and provides passport and consular services to over 600,000 citizens annually.
