I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 113 together.
Ireland is seeking election to one of the two non-permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council which are designated for the "Western Europe and Others" Group of States for the two-year term 2001/2002. The election will take place in the 188-member UN General Assembly in October 2000. The election is being contested by three other candidates; Norway, Turkey and Italy. Successful candidates will require the support of two-thirds of those States present and voting. In effect, this means that the support of around 120 States will be needed to secure election. The election is by secret ballot.
I have sought support for Ireland's candidacy on all appropriate occasions, including on official visits abroad. Since September last, he has personally discussed Ireland's candidacy with the Foreign Ministers or Prime Ministers of approximately 100 member states of the United Nations.