Vol. 542 No. 2
113 Mr. B. Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of the Government regarding the observer status of the Catholic Church to the United Nations; the Government's views on whether it is acceptable that one world religion can have this position within the UN, while other religions are excluded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21160/01]
The Holy See has enjoyed observer status at the United Nations as a non-member state since 1964 and maintains a permanent observer mission at the UN. Two states, the Holy See and Switzerland, enjoy this status.
The Holy See's position within the UN derives from its internationally recognised statehood. It maintains diplomatic relations with a great many countries, including Ireland.
As regards the role of non-state actors at the UN, it is very much keeping with the principles and objectives of the United Nations that entities other than member states be accommodated within the structure of the United Nations and their views heard. Non-governmental organisations are entitled to seek consultative status at various UN conferences and meetings and I welcome the valuable contributions which they bring to discussions.
