Liz McManus
Question:51 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government's views on the current situation in Algeria and the outcome of the poll on 16 September 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20869/99]
Written Answers. - Algerian Conflict.
Although the situation in Algeria remains difficult, there are some more positive signs that it is starting to emerge from the years of violence and beginning to make progress towards national reconciliation and reconstruction.
On 6 June, the Islamic Salvation Army, the AIS, confirmed that its campaign of violence had ended. The Islamic Salvation Front, the FIS, which is still outlawed, endorsed the announcement.
President Bouteflika introduced legislation to grant an amnesty to the AIS militants and their supporters who renounce violence, which the National Assembly has enacted. On 5 July, the 37th anniversary of Algerian independence, the first stage of the amnesty, which is expected to lead to the release of 5,000 detainees, was put into effect. On 16 September, an overwhelming majority approved the referendum on the President's proposals which are aimed at achieving peace and civil concord. These are positive steps which I earnestly hope will soon bring an end to the suffering which has been inflicted upon the Algerian people for most of this decade.
Ireland and the European Union welcome the encouraging outcome of the referendum which demonstrated the support of the Algerian people for President Bouteflika's mission of national reconciliation and peace.
The European Union has also confirmed to the Algerian government that it remains ready to support and encourage the reform process in Algeria, particularly through the Euro-Mediterranean partnership, including the speedy resumption of negotiations on the conclusion of a Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreement. The EU political dialogue with Algeria is continuing. The next meeting, which is scheduled for 3 November, will be at ministerial or troika level.