asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself regarding the intervention of the Indian armed forces in the Jaffna area of Sri Lanka; if the Tamil population is under more pressure now than when the Sri Lankan Army patrolled the area; and if any worthwhile peaceful settlement is in sight.
Written Answers. - Sri Lankan Conflict.
30.
Ireland, together with the other member states of the European Community, has consistently advocated a negotiated settlement of this tragic conflict within the framework of a united Sri Lanka as the only way to reach a lasting solution acceptable to all parties concerned.
We believe that the agreement signed on 29 July last year between the Governments of India and of Sri Lanka, if implemented, could meet the requirement for such a settlement. On 20 August 1987, shortly after the agreement was signed, we joined with our Community partners in a statement which warmly welcomed it. We urged all parties to comply with its provisions and refrain from any action intended to endanger it.
This agreement provides for military assistance by India at the request of the Sri Lankan Government. I understand that, under its terms and at the request of Sri Lanka, a large number of Indian troops are now engaged with Sri Lanka.
The present situation in Sri Lanka is naturally a matter of concern to us as it appears that conflict and tragic loss of life, including loss of life among the civilian population, continue there. We believe however that the agreement signed last year offers the best way forward for all concerned and, together with our partners in the Community, we maintain our support for it and urge all parties to comply with its provisions.