Ray Burke
Question:126 Mr. R. Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the Government will use its influence during the Irish Presidency of the EU to ensure that the EU Somalia Unit is not disbanded. [18335/96]
Written Answers. - EU Somalia Unit.
The European Commission is welcomed in most areas of Somalia as the main international donor, contributing substantially to the ongoing reconciliation and reconstruction process. The Irish Presidency will ensure that every effort is made to maintain that record.
With regard to the particular point raised by Deputy Burke, I understand from the European Commission that consideration is being given to the possibility of making administrative changes in relation to the EU Somalia Unit, which is at present under the responsibility of the EU special envoy, Mr. Sigurd Illing. The changes being considered by the Commission could involve the EU Somalia Unit being made the responsibility of the EU Commission's Kenyan delegation which is also based in Nairobi. The Commission believes that if this were done there would be no effect on the operations of the EU Somalia Unit which were outlined in the recently approved second rehabilitation programme for Somalia, and which involves funding of $60 million over the next two years.
The Government is consulting with partners and the Commission with a view to ensuring that the administrative and practical arrangements continue to be adequate to support the programme of assistance to Somalia.