Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 May 1995

Vol. 453 No. 3

Written Answers. - Renewed Bombardment of Grozny.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

50 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the representation, if any, he has made to the Russian authorities regarding the renewed bombardment of Grozny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9290/95]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

The situation in Chechnya continues to be a matter of grave concern. The order preclaiming a "moratorium" on Russian military activities in Chechnya from 27 April to 12 May, over the period of the World War II ceremonies in Moscow, has now lapsed. Earlier this month heavy fighting broke out again in and around the capital Grozny. More recently, there are reports that concentrated mortar and artillery bombardment of the mountainous southern region of the Republic is taking place.

As he reported to the Dáil on 16 May, the Taoiseach expressed the Government's grave concern about the continuing conflict in Chechnya to Russian Foreign Minister Kozyrev in Moscow on 9 May. The Taoiseach urged an end to the fighting in the region without further delay and the opening of constructive negotiations towards a political solution, with the active assistance of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Subsequently, our Ambassador to the OSCE raised the question of the continuing hostilities in Chechnya and the appalling consequences for the civilian population with the head of the Russian OSCE delegation.

An OSCE assistance group was deployed in Grozny in late April. It is working constructively on the ground to promote respect for human rights and the development of democratic institutions; to facilitate the return of refugees and the distribution of humanitarian aid and to encourage a lasting ceasefire and peaceful resolution of the conflict. Ireland considers that Russia's co-operation with the deployment in Grozny of the OSCE assistance group was an important development.

Ireland also welcomes the agreement which has been reached between the Chechen separatist leader, General Dudayev, and the Russian authorities to hold talks aimed at halting the fighting in Chechnya. It is understood that the talks will be held on Thursday, 25 May under the auspices of the OSCE. A constructive effort is now required by both sides to put an end to the fighting, to open serious negotiations for a political solution and to improve access for the local population to humanitarian aid. The Government will continue to work actively towards these objectives, both bilaterally and in co-operation with our EU partners, as well as within the framework of the OSCE.