David Stanton
Question:68 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the criteria APSO applies in its selection of personnel for election monitoring missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28236/98]
Written Answers - Election Monitoring Missions.
The criteria used by APSO in selecting personnel for election monitoring purposes are: previous experience in election process and management and-or work experience in a developing country; political impartiality; capacity to work effectively as part of a team and willingness to be placed at the service of the mission; ability to operate under difficult and stressful living and working conditions; in good health; where a candidate has experience of previous missions they should have carried out their duties to the satisfaction of the OSCE or other responsible body.
APSO co-operates closely with the Department in supplying election observers to missions in association with the OSCE, the EU and the United Nations.
The APSO election register is renewed regularly and currently has over 300 people who have been selected and are available for short-term election observation duties. An effort is made to ensure a blend of new and experienced people on each mission.