Vol. 468 No. 2
22 Kathleen Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the most recent reports of atrocities emanating from East Timor; the proposals, if any, Ireland will bring forward during the EU Presidency with regard to East Timor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14641/96]
I am aware of the events which took place on 10 and 11 June 1996 in Baucau, the second city of East Timor. Riots which involved some hundred of young people broke out after protesters clashed with local police and military units. The police and military units are reported to have used rubber bullets. The protests were prompted by the profanation of a statute of the Virgin Mary. I understand that there have been continuing arrests following these riots in Baucau and that upwards of one hundred persons have been wounded. Upon hearing of these incidents, Ireland took the initiative of consulting EU partners in the matter.
On 26 June 1996 the European Union adopted a common position on East Timor which aims to contribute to the achievement by dialogue of a fair, comprehensive and internationally acceptable solution to the question of East Timor, which fully respects the interests and legitimate aspirations of the Timorese people, in accordance with international law; and to improve the situation in East Timor regarding respect for human rights in the territory.
In pursuit of these aims, the European Union supports the initiatives undertaken in the United Nations framework which may contribute to a solution of the question of East Timor, in particular the current talks under the aegis of the UN Secretary-General, and encourages the continuation of intra-Timor meetings in the context of this process of dialogue.
As EU Presidency, Ireland will actively pursue the Union's policy on East Timor in accordance with the Common Position. Efforts to promote progress towards a settlement, however, continue to be hampered by serious obstacles.
