asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will now request that United Nations observers be sent to the Six Counties.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Six Counties UN Observers.
10.
I do not at present propose to seek the presence of UN observers in Northern Ireland.
Since it has been stated repeatedly by members of the British Government that they would like to withdraw their forces and as there have been requests from many sources for a withdrawal and also that a decision to this effect may be reached shortly, would the time not be appropriate now to ask an impartial body, such as the UN, to observe the situation?
I cannot accept the Deputy's contention. I am not clear as to what function he thinks UN observers would perform if the British Army were to leave. In that event the situation that could ensue would be one in which more than observers would be needed to preserve life. The Deputy must be aware that in pressing for such a withdrawal he is not at this time acting in the interests of the minority in the North.
That is a very serious accusation.
Can the Minister say whether, since he regards it as not useful to have observers, impartial or otherwise, it would be wise to have observers, whether from the UN or from this Government, so that we would be aware of the situation?
The Deputy does not understand what is involved in regard to UN observers.