Vol. 420 No. 3
40 Mr. Taylor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement regarding the supply of heavy weapons, including Scud Missiles in substantial numbers, by the Government of North Korea to middle eastern countries; if he will outline the Government position on this matter; and if he has made or will make representations to the Government of North Korea in the matter.
I am aware of reports regarding the supply of weapons, including Scud missiles, by North Korea to Middle-Eastern countries. Any supply of such weapons to regions of tension and instability like the Middle East, is always a matter of great concern.
Ireland, together with its EC partners, expressed concern about exports of conventional weapons in a Declaration on Non-Proliferation and Arms Exports which was adopted by the European Council at its meeting in Luxembourg on 29 June 1991.
This Declaration expressed alarm at the stockpiling of conventional weapons in certain regions of the world. To prevent situations of instability recurring in entire regions as a result of such overarmament, the European Council stated that far-reaching international action was needed immediately to promote restraint and transparency in the transfers of conventional weapons and of technologies for military use, in particular towards areas of tension. Ireland participated in the drafting of this Declaration and we give it our full support.
Ireland does not have diplomatic relations with North Korea. Nevertheless, in whatever contacts we may have with that country, we would certainly convey to them our views in line with the above Declaration.
