Enda Kenny and Charlie Flanagan have launched a review of Ireland’s foreign policy.

Entitled The Global Island: Ireland’s Foreign Policy for a Changing World, the review was launched at a Conference in Dublin Castle organised by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade today.

The review considers how the Government "safeguards our peace, security and economic prosperity, and promotes reconciliation and cooperation at home."

The Taoiseach stated: “Our foreign policy is more important than ever to ensure Ireland engages successfully at the heart of the EU and on the world stage. Our network of embassies and State agencies are making a vital contribution to the Government’s objectives of job creation and economic growth.”

Speaking following the launch, Minister Flanagan stated: “Ireland is a country with a global people, economy, culture and outlook. Ireland’s foreign policy is an essential tool to serve the Irish people and promote their values and economic interests abroad. 

Meanwhile, the Taoiseach says it's vital that Britain doesn't leave the European Union while speaking at the conference.

He told an audience of Irish ambassadors that it's in Ireland's national interests for the UK to stay in the union.