During the Order of Business in the Seanad, I said: I question the wisdom of foreign affairs and trade being joined together in the same Department. Trade is important, but when we tie it to foreign affairs, it falls behind. The Tánaiste has been criticised for not going on a trade mission for almost two years following his appointment and for devoting all of his time to foreign affairs...

Are we losing sight of the importance of trade by having the two areas joined together, particularly given the fact that the Tánaiste is very interested in what is happening at home and is unavailable to travel on trade visits? He is busy with foreign affairs, but perhaps we should allocate more time and attention to trade.

Exports have done well in recent years, but they need more time and attention.