Irish ambassador's rent sees €46,000 hike after latest London lease extension

While the landlord was happy for the Department of Foreign Affairs to stay on, they said they wanted a 'substantial increase' in rent of over 11%

The new lease of €508,925 per annum for the Irish ambassador to Britain Martin Fraser's residence was signed off on because no better options were available. Picture: Photocall Ireland/GIS

The Department of Foreign Affairs was hit with a hike of more than €46,000 on the annual rent they pay for the Irish ambassador’s residence in London.

The department said it had little choice but to agree to the sharp increase even though it brought the cost of the property close to €10,000 per week.