Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 31 Jan 1995

Vol. 448 No. 3

Written Answers. - East Timor.

Willie Penrose

Question:

50 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps, if any, that have been taken at EU level and also at diplomatic level with the Australian Government to convey our concern with the situation pertaining in East Timor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1903/95]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

Ireland has on several occasions, in the course of its own bilateral contacts with Australia, raised the issue of East Timor; the subject has not been taken up with Australia by the EU. During his visit to Australia in September of last year, the then Taoiseach discussed the issue with Australian Prime Minister Keating.

In addition, officials of my Department have outlined to the Australian Ambassador Ireland's concerns at the situation in East Timor and asked the Australian Government to use its influence with Indonesia to achieve an improvement in that country's record in East Timor.

The Ambassador replied that Australia is concerned about human rights in East Timor and is using all its influence with Indonesia to raise individual human rights cases. Australia is aware that Indonesia's claim to sovereignty over East Timor, which Australia recognises, is not accepted by Ireland and the other member states of the European Union.

Ireland will continue to avail of every appropriate opportunity to raise the issue of East Timor directly with the Indonesian authorities and in the relevant international organisations.