asked the Minister for External Affairs whether his Department have taken any initiative in response to suggestions by the Italian and Finnish Governments that a European security conference should be summoned with a view to securing a detente in East-West relations in Europe; and whether, in view of the desirability of Ireland, as a Western European country which is not a member of NATO, playing an active role in the reduction of tension in Europe for the benefit of the peoples of Eastern Europe, he will consider establishing a diplomatic mission in Eastern Europe.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Establishment of Diplomatic Mission in Eastern Europe.
29.
Our representatives abroad were instructed to make known to all Governments concerned that as a UN and as a European country Ireland would welcome all effective measures to reduce tensions and promote security and co-operation between European states, founded on respect for national self-determination and on non-intervention.
Could I ask whether we have taken any steps in relation to this matter, what were our reactions, or was there any consultation with the Governments concerned or did we simply sit there and do nothing?
I do not know if the Deputy heard what I said. Our representatives were instructed to make known to the Governments concerned our attitude and our principle in relation to the reductions of tensions. I think the Dáil would agree with me that it would be essential to have careful preparatory work before any such meetings to ensure some reasonable prospect of worthwhile results. To attempt something, to raise false hopes and not achieve anything could do more harm than good. The premises underlying the convocation of a conference should not contain any features that would make it difficult to bring about the conference. We must bear in mind that the fundamental aim of our people is to see the unity of Ireland restored and we could not subscribe to the principle of the immutability of the existing boundaries. In principle we would do what we can but the Deputy will appreciate that there are conditions and certain preparations which should be made to make the conference worthwhile.
May I take it that not only are we in agreement in principle with the idea but will actively work towards the convening of such a security conference?
As I said, we believe in reducing tensions and we would like to promote security and co-operation among the European States, founded on national self-determination and non-intervention.
Would the Minister not agree that these Italian and Finnish initiatives——
There were no Italian initiatives.
(Interruptions.)
Have we had any contact with Yugoslavia whose position in eastern Europe now is similar to ours in western Europe as they are not a member of the Warsaw Pact and are not a member of NATO?
As the Taoiseach remarked, proposals for a security conference were made to our Embassy in London by the Hungarian Embassy on behalf of the Warsaw Treaty countries and a similar approach was made from the Rumanian Embassy. I am not aware of any Italian approach.
(Interruptions.)
Would Deputy FitzGerald please allow Deputy Dr. Browne to put a supplementary question?
Did the Minister address himself to the question of establishing a diplomatic mission in East Europe?
Yes. This question is examined from time to time and the factors mentioned in the first question by Deputy FitzGerald are among the other factors taken into account. I have not examined the matter myself.
But we now have a few potential ambassadors for that part of the world over there.
Is the Minister aware that the Catholic Church in Poland would particularly welcome the establishment of such a mission?
The Deputy should tell us where he gets his information from. There was no Italian initiative that we know of.
(Interruptions.)
Garret will take all your seats before you know where you are.