Trevor Sargent
Question:36 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has written to the President of North Korea to protest at that country's decision to opt out of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.
Written Answers. - Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
As I stated in a written reply of 23 March last, the Government are deeply concerned at the decision of the North Korean Government to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty which we regard as the most important international instrument for countering the spread of nuclear weapons. The action taken by North Korea threatens to undermine the effectiveness of the Treaty as well as raising serious questions about the intentions of that country with regard to developing nuclear weapons.
On 7 April last, I issued a statement calling on the North Korean Government to rescind its announcement of withdrawal from the Treaty and supporting the efforts of the International Automic-Energy Agency to implement its nuclear safeguards agreement with North Korea. This has been transmitted to the North Korean authorities. Moreover, acting on behalf of the European Community and its member states, the Danish Presidency has conveyed the views of the Twelve to North Korea. The Deputy can be assured that Ireland and its partners in the European Community will continue to impress on the North Korean Government at every opportunity the absolute importance of reversing the very dangerous course which they have taken.