Ambassadors to be asked to step up efforts to support Irish business

Ireland’s ambassadors are to be asked to redouble their efforts to support Irish business internationally during a three-day conference that begins today in Dublin.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan will make the call as part of the Government's drive to deepen the economic recovery and increase employment.

More than 90 Irish ambassadors, consuls general and senior diplomats, along with the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Ministers and representatives of Irish companies, the State agencies, third-level institutions and the creative sectors are to take part in the conference.

EU high representative Federica Mogherini will deliver an address, as will the UN secretary-general's special envoy on climate change, Mary Robinson, and special adviser on post-2015 development planning, Amina Mohammed.

Ambassadors are to meet executives from more than 40 Irish companies directly to discuss opportunities and challenges in international markets and how Irish embassies can help Irish businesses succeed.