Ivor Callely
Question:173 Mr. Callely asked the Taoiseach the level of support for his peace drive that he has received from heads of State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1134/94]
Written Answers. - Support for Peace Initiative.
The Joint Declaration of December 1993 agreed between the Irish and British Governments, set out a balanced context for the achievement of a lasting peace with justice in Ireland.
I am glad to say that the Declaration, and the continued objective of a political settlement for Northern Ireland, have attracted sustained and widespread support throughout the world — notably in those countries which are homes to a significant number of the Irish diaspora and among our fellow member states of the European Union.
The attainment of the IRA ceasefire drew messages of support and congratulations from many world leaders including President Clinton, Prime Minister Paul Keating and Yasser Arafat. I have also received support from European Heads of Government and other countries such as Japan, India and South Africa. In the context of that ceasefire, I have paid particular tribute to the contribution made by President Clinton and members of his Administration.
I am very pleased at the commitment by both the United States and the European Union to increased financial support to consolidate peace. In my recent visit to Australia and New Zealand, I was greatly heartened by the Australian Government's decision to contribute to the International Fund for Ireland and by the decision of the New Zealand Government to make an additional contribution.