Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

I am writing to formally submit a request for information under the Freedom of Information Act regarding the financial operations of the Department of Foreign Affairs, covering the period from January 2022 to the present. Specifically, I would like to request the following information: 1. *Cost of Operating Irish Embassies*: A detailed breakdown of the total expenses incurred in the operation of all Irish embassies from January 2022 to the present. This should encompass operational costs, personnel expenses, maintenance, and any other relevant expenditures associated with each individual embassy. 2. *Rental Properties*: A comprehensive report outlining the total costs related to all rental properties managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs during the indicated period. This request includes, but is not limited to, expenses associated with both domestic and international properties. 3. *Foreign Aid Expenditure*: A thorough account of the foreign aid disbursed globally by the Department from January 2022 to the present. This should include a detailed breakdown of the aid provided to various countries, specifying the amounts disbursed and the purposes for which the aid was provided. 4. *Entertainment Allowances and Expenditures*: I would also request information regarding entertainment allowances and expenditures incurred by the embassies. Specifically, I am seeking a list of those embassies that have allocated funds for entertainment, along with a comprehensive breakdown of those costs. 5. *Ministerial Office Entertainment Allowances and Expenditures*: Additionally, I would like to request a full breakdown of all entertainment allowances and expenditures from the Ministerial office during the same time frame. This should include a detailed account of expenses incurred, purposes, and any relevant justifications. I would greatly appreciate your assistance in providing this information at your earliest convenience. If my request cannot be fulfilled in its entirety, I kindly ask that you provide as much information as possible and indicate the reasons for any limitations.