Denis Naughten
Question:11 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide information on the political and humanitarian crisis in Sudan; and the EU’s response to human rights abuses. [18784/04]
Written Answers.
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies received from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 10, inclusive, answered orally.
Foreign Conflicts.
Damien English
Question:13 Mr. English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action the EU is taking in the Sudan to save lives threatened by a most serious famine; his views on whether the crisis was overlooked to date and has not received the attention that it deserves. [18789/04]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:21 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he tabled any proposals at EU or UN level to deal with the crisis in the Sudan. [18870/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 11, 13 and 21 together.
Over the course of the Irish Presidency, the EU was to the forefront of the international community in promoting urgent action to address the appalling humanitarian and human rights problem in Darfur. At its meetings in April, May and June, the External Relations Council expressed serious concern at the humanitarian and human rights violations in Darfur. It called on the Government of Sudan to provide unhindered and safe humanitarian access to the region. The EU has been clear in its condemnation of all human rights violations and particularly the actions of the Janjaweed militias. The Sudanese Government must take immediate action to adequately protect civilians against these violent militias. The EU has consistently conveyed this message to it.
The EU and the UN continue to work closely on the crisis in Darfur. On 3 June the EU and UN hosted a successful high-level donors' consultative meeting in Geneva that was co-chaired by my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Kitt. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Sudanese Government as well as the rebel groups operating in Darfur. Once again a strong message was conveyed by the EU, the UN and others on the need for immediate and unrestricted access to Darfur for humanitarian agencies. We are extremely concerned at the gross human rights abuses reported by the acting UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. My Minister of State, Deputy Kitt, met the Sudanese Government. He demanded that the human rights abuses be investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice. He also demanded unhindered access for the relief operation. The Sudanese Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs gave a commitment that human rights abuses would be investigated and that bureaucratic obstacles to the relief operation would be removed. This week EU heads of mission in Khartoum reported that visible progress was being made on the registration of international NGOs and visas for NGO staff members. They also said that the backlog of customs problems is being cleared. The situation will be kept under constant review.
The EU is working closely with the African Union to establish an AU-led ceasefire commission and monitoring mission for the Darfur region. In its role as EU Presidency, Ireland succeeded in assuring the establishment this past month of the EU's new African peace facility fund. We then pressed for a quick release of EU funding for the AU's initiative in Darfur. I am pleased that €12 million was allocated to the Darfur ceasefire commission from the EU's APF fund. The EU was invited to contribute observers to the ceasefire monitoring mission and Ireland nominated a military officer.
Yesterday I met the UN Secretary General in New York and we discussed Darfur. The UNSG expressed gratitude for the role of the EU in addressing the crisis. I welcome his announcement that he will travel to Darfur, Khartoum and Chad at the end of the month.
Sudan is a priority for Ireland's humanitarian assistance. So far this year we have committed €2.5 million to Darfur. We fund the provision of food through the World Food Programme and life-saving activities such as shelter, water and sanitation through NGOs. We have kept in close touch with aid agencies operating in the area. We have also made representations to ensure that visas were issued expeditiously to Irish development workers.
The situation in Darfur and western Sudan continues to require our immediate attention. However, I welcome the progress towards a comprehensive peace agreement between the Sudanese Government and the Southern People's Liberation Movement-Army. It should bring an end to 20 years of civil war in southern Sudan. The EU, together with the UN and the US, will continue to press both sides to sustain the momentum towards peace and to show a similar commitment to bringing peace to all of Sudan.
Israeli Separation Barrier.
Trevor Sargent
Question:12 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has sought meetings with Cement Roadstone on its involvement in the building of the wall by Israeli authorities in the West Bank that will lead to the further exclusion and repression of Palestinians. [18862/04]
A subsidiary company of Cement Roadstone Holdings owns a minority shareholding of about one-quarter in the main Israeli cement producer Nesher. The share quota does not give the parent company control over Nesher's operational matters. The Israeli company supplies cement to all of the concrete manufacturers in the country. It does not have a say in the final use of the concrete products. It also has no direct involvement in the construction of the separation barrier. Therefore, it is incorrect to speak of CRH's involvement in the construction of the barrier.
The Government's position on the illegality of the construction is well known. Our submission to the International Court of Justice at the end of January clearly outlined our position. On numerous occasions I have expressed my serious concern about the consequences of the barrier for the Palestinians affected and for the peace process.
Question No. 13 answered with QuestionNo. 11.
Overseas Development Aid.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:14 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the fact that the latest Commitment to Development Index published by US journal Foreign Affairs places Ireland eighteenth overall, and fourth from bottom of the world’s richest countries, in terms of the effectiveness of its overseas development assistance; the areas of concern and where improvement can be made in terms of the effectiveness of national overseas development aid. [18829/04]
The index is compiled by the Center for Global Development in the United States. It is a privately funded organisation and seeks to rate the policies of 21 wealthy countries in terms of their impact in promoting development in poorer countries.
The index looks at the quality of foreign aid provided; the openness to developing country exports; policies that influence investment; migration policies; support for the creation of new technologies; security policies; and environmental policies. It draws upon contributions from scholars at the center, the Brookings Institution, Georgetown University and the Migration Policy Institute. The Rockefeller Foundation funds the compilation of the index.
I welcome the emergence of the index. Heretofore, appraisals of the effectiveness of the development effort looked only at the resources and programmes provided for the direct development effort. Broadening out the perspective to look at the degree to which the richer countries create and sustain an enabling development environment across all of their policies, such as in migration, peacekeeping and trade offers valuable insights into the overall coherence of policies as they apply to poorer countries.
The index is in its second year and a degree of error is perhaps inevitable at this stage of its development. The center has admitted that its 2004 index is flawed. It states that Ireland funds 404 projects in Tanzania and that they place a huge reporting and management burden on the Tanzanian authorities. This is not the case. The center accepted that there was a fundamental misinterpretation of financial data provided by the Irish programme to the OECD. Financial transactions by our Tanzanian partners were misread as projects and it was assumed that a huge burden was placed on our local partners in Tanzania. The opposite is the case and we made that clear in an authoritative assessment of our programme last year.
In 2003 the Development Assistance Committee of the OECD looked at the Tanzanian programmes of four donors, Ireland, Denmark, Finland and Japan. It concluded that Ireland was a strong performer in putting partnerships into practice. There was also a heavy emphasis on harmonisation with other donors and the Government of Tanzania through pooled funding. Ireland was regarded as a flexible and agile donor in responding to needs in Tanzania.
In addition to the specific flaw on Ireland, there is concern about the methodology used in assessing the development effort. For example, the perspectives in the index on technology and security need revision. It is not clear why up to 50% of defence related research in rich countries is deemed of benefit to poorer countries. Additionally, the rationale for assessing peacekeeping is unclear.
I am confident that the index will improve when it is adjusted to assess more accurately the policies of wealthy countries towards poorer ones. It will also become more valuable as an instrument in promoting greater coherence within and between wealthy countries in the development effort.
EU Security Council.
Arthur Morgan
Question:15 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government’s position on the proposal to create an EU Security Council as recommended by the report of the Venusberg Group entitled A European Defence Strategy published on 27 May. [18868/04]
Arthur Morgan
Question:45 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government’s position on the proposal to create an EU internal security agency as recommended by the report of the Venusberg Group entitled A European Defence Strategy published on 27 May. [18869/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 45 together.
The Venusberg Group is a group of academics who carry out security and defence studies. It is affiliated to the German think tank, the Bertelsmann Foundation. Therefore, the report has no formal standing and its proposals are not under consideration within the EU.
The basis for European Security and Defence Policy is set out in the relevant articles of the EU Treaty. The political and security committee, or COPS in its French acronym, is responsible for exercising political oversight for the Common Foreign and Security and Defence Policy under the overall control of the Council. This includes providing political control and strategic direction of the crisis management operations carried out in the context of the ESDP.
The European Council, at its meeting in March, adopted a Declaration on Combating Terrorism that sets out a range of measures to enhance EU action in the area. The Council reviewed progress on the implementation of these measures at its meeting on 17 and 18 June. At the March meeting it also appointed a counter terrorism co-ordinator, Mr. Gijs de Vries. He will co-ordinate the work of the Council in combating terrorism. He will also maintain, with due regard to the responsibilities of the Commission, an overview of all the instruments at the Union's disposal with a view to regular reporting to the Council and effective follow-up of Council decisions.
The Government is satisfied that current bases for the ongoing and future development of ESDP and counter-terrorism activities at EU level, including those set out in the treaty establishing a constitution for Europe, are the most appropriate ones.
Lost Passports.
Joan Burton
Question:16 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of lost passports returned to the passport office in the 2003-04; the reasons he decided to end the practice of routinely returning them to their owners; if he is concerned that large numbers of young people are forced to carry their passports with them when socialising due to the requirement to provide official identification by staff in bars and nightclubs; and his views on whether this contributes to increased numbers of lost passports. [18828/04]
The number of passports reported as lost to the Passport Office showed a reduction in the first five months of this year compared to recent years. So far this year only 3.9% of passport applicants reported their previous passport as lost. This compares with a figure of 4.66% last year and 4.21% in 2002.
In 2003 as many as 3,861 passports were returned to the Passport Office and 1,592 have been returned so far this year. These have come from a variety of sources including the Garda Síochána, bars, clubs, shops, banks and members of the public. On average around one in six passports that are reported lost are returned to the Passport Office. Anecdotally the office believes, and this is supported by Garda advice, that the vast majority of the remainder are lost or mislaid in people's homes rather than stolen or misappropriated for fraudulent use.
The office decided with effect from 1 March, based upon Garda security advice, to cease the practice of returning lost passports that were recovered to the holder. As it is impossible to determine what use, if any, was made of a passport while it was out of the possession of the holder the Garda advise that it is preferable not to return a lost passport. Instead they recommend cancelling it and the holder must obtain a new passport. Where a person seeks a new passport to replace a lost one the Passport Office will issue him or her with a replacement passport.
I am aware that many bars and clubs require young people to produce evidence of age and identity as a condition of entry. There is no requirement to use a passport for this purpose. The Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 specifies a number of documents that may be used to satisfy a licensee that a person is over 18 years, including a Garda age card, a passport, an identity card of a member state of the European Communities, a driver's licence or other documents as may be specified by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
In reply to a question tabled by DeputyRichard Bruton on 17 February, my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform encouraged licensees to accept the Garda age card as an age and identity document. I encourage young persons to obtain the card for this purpose through their local Garda station.
Foreign Conflicts.
Dinny McGinley
Question:17 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recently published Amnesty International Report, Israel and the Occupied Territories, concerning the demolition of houses and destruction of lands and properties. [18773/04]
I am aware of the disturbing report. On 13, 14 and 19 May I set out my position on the demolition of houses in the Gaza Strip in a number of statements. On 14 May in my statement on house demolitions in Rafah I recalled that the Quartet had also emphasised that Israel should refrain from the demolition of Palestinian homes and property as a punitive measure or to facilitate Israeli construction.
Last week officials of my Department had a useful meeting with representatives of Amnesty International and the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions to discuss the matter.
EU Policy.
Olivia Mitchell
Question:18 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the report of the European Round Table of Industrialists on the EU’s neighbourhood policy. [18806/04]
I am aware of the report entitled ERT's Vision of a Bigger Single Market. The European Round Table of Industrialists issued it in May. The report sets out the ERT's position on the European Neighbourhood Policy. I welcome the interest of the ERT in the EU's external relations policies, particularly with its new neighbours. Since its foundation, the ERT has been a strong advocate of the process of European integration, including the Single Market, the economic and monetary union and enlargement.
Following EU enlargement, the EU's new neighbours now include all the countries on the external land and sea border of the Union. They are: Russia, Ukraine, Moldova and Belarus in the east and Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, the Palestinian Authority, Syria and Tunisia to the south. During the Irish Presidency the Commission issued a strategy document on the ENP that was extensively discussed with member states. The General Affairs and External Relations Council met on 14 and 15 June and the European Council met on 17 and 18 June. They issued conclusions on the future development of the policy based on the strategy paper. I am delighted that GAERC decided to include Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia within the new neighbourhood policy.
Many of the specific economic issues, including WTO and the Single Market, that were raised in the ERT report are matters of Commission competence. I welcome the many elements of the report on areas of Council competence. Chief among these is the importance attached in the report to the role of the EU in enhancing political and economic stability in the new neighbourhood countries; the relevance of the views of the member states; and the importance of public support for the neighbourhood policy. I particularly welcome the ERT's report as a timely contribution to public debate and to increasing business interest in making the policy a success.
I was pleased that GAERC, on 14 and 15 June, confirmed the EU's objective of sharing the benefits of an enlarged EU with its new neighbours to contribute to increased stability, security and prosperity. This ensures that the EU will offer the prospect of an increasingly close relationship involving a significant degree of economic integration and a deepening of political co-operation. It will also aim to prevent the emergence of new dividing lines between the enlarged EU and its neighbours.
Foreign Conflicts.
John Gormley
Question:19 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the EU plans for beginning to normalise relations with Iraq once an interim Iraqi Government is put in place. [18853/04]
The EU's goal is to see the restoration of an independent, democratic, peaceful and sovereign Iraq to the international community. With this in mind and in light of Security Council Resolution 1546 and the imminent transfer of sovereignty to the interim Iraqi Government, the EU has adopted a medium-term strategy for its relations with Iraq. The strategy provides the Union with a framework to continue its assistance to the Iraqi people. The Union has pledged €700 million to the end of 2004 for the reconstruction and development of the Iraqi economy and society.
The strategy sets out three major objectives: the development of a secure, stable and democratic Iraq; the establishment of an open, stable, sustainable and diversified market economy and society; and Iraq's economic and political integration into its region and the open international system.
The strategy envisages three phases for progressive engagement with Iraq, immediate, post-election and medium term. It reflects the three distinct phases anticipated by Security Council Resolution 1546. It will allow involvement to increase in a progressive manner and the strategy to adapt to changing circumstances. Proposed options for short-term engagement include: continued provision of technical, economic and reconstruction assistance; establishing close engagement with UN teams, including on preparations for elections; enhancing the representation of the EU in Iraq, as circumstances permit; beginning a process of political dialogue; and encouraging regional support for the political and reconstruction process in Iraq. In July GAERC will consider the specific recommendations and agree appropriate first steps to take.
The realisation of the objectives set out will depend on the degree to which they are shared by a future Iraqi government and the evolution of the security and political situation in Iraq. Consultation with the Iraqi administration and society is of paramount importance. The EU is also committed to ensuring that any actions it implements are in full co-ordination with the United Nations, both on the ground and in international fora. The Union also intends to co-ordinate closely with the World Bank, the IMF and other financial institutions.
We remain concerned at the continuing violence in Iraq and of the difficulties it poses for the Iraqi people in their daily lives and for the transfer of sovereignty to the Iraqi people and the reconstruction of the country. Our framework provides for progressively closer EU-Iraq relations but its pace will be determined by progress in the political transition and the security climate.
G8 Ministerial Meetings.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:20 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the nature of discussions he held with the US President during the recent meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Group of Eight industrialised nations in Washington; if he raised the US mistreatment of prisoners in Iraq; and the response given by the US President. [18838/04]
On 14 May I attended a meeting between G8 Foreign Ministers and President Bush in Washington. Iraq, the Middle East Peace Process and relations with the wider region and peace support operations were discussed.
President Bush acknowledged that there were differences within the international community in the past on Iraq. He stressed the need for a cohesive international response to ensure a successful democratic transition in Iraq. He also emphasised the central role of the United Nations in Iraq going forward.
President Bush emphasised his disgust, and the disgust of the American people, at the mistreatment of Iraqi prisoners at the Abu Ghraib prison in Baghdad. He stressed his determination that justice be done and that the individuals involved be held accountable. He was in no doubt about the international criticism and outrage that had resulted from appalling events in Abu Ghraib. He condemned the mistreatment of prisoners in the strongest terms.
We discussed the G8's plans for a partnership for progress and a common future in the region of the broader Middle East and North Africa and the Middle East Peace Process. The President reiterated his support for a two state solution and the emergence of a peaceful Palestinian state through the road map process. We also had a brief discussion on the G8 action plan on peace support operations. At that time it was confirmed that the G8 remains committed to providing substantial support to accelerate and expand current efforts to enhance global capability for peacekeeping operations.
Question No. 21 answered with QuestionNo. 11.
Northern Ireland Issues.
Tom Hayes
Question:22 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the Northern Ireland crisis; and if he will report on the efforts being made to restart the Northern Ireland Assembly. [18791/04]
Pat Rabbitte
Question:26 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made following the reconvening of discussions concerning the review of the Good Friday Agreement; the Government’s precise priorities for the review; and its timeframe. [18825/04]
Brendan Smith
Question:107 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress to date in the negotiations to re-establish the Executive and the Assembly in Northern Ireland. [18985/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22, 26 and 107 together.
On 25 June the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister will meet the parties in London. They will review and assess the overall political situation with the parties before the summer break and explore the basis for a way forward.
In tandem with the ongoing intensive engagement between the two Governments and the parties, the review of the Agreement resumed its meetings on 15 and 16 June following the European elections in Northern Ireland. Meetings also took place on 21 and 22 June. The Government was represented at the meetings on 16 June and 22 June by the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Deputy John O'Donoghue.
The meetings on 15 and 21 June focused on Strand One. On 16 June meetings focused on strand two or the North-South issues. On 22 June discussions focused on strand three, particularly the British-Irish Council. The UUP did not attend these review meetings. However, they had a separate political meeting with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. All other parties represented in the Assembly attended the recent meetings of the review.
As the review was convened on 3 February discussion focused on Strands One, Two and Three of the Agreement. A number of the parties suggested changes and improvements to the operation of the Agreement. The two Governments will, with the parties, consider the format that the review will take following the summer recess, particularly in light of those aspects of the Agreement that have not been discussed.
The Taoiseach and Prime Minister will avail of the opportunity to meet the parties later this week. They will encourage all sides to intensify their collective efforts to find a political basis for the full operation of all the political institutions of the Agreement.
Question No. 23 answered with QuestionNo. 6.
State Visits.
Dan Neville
Question:24 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the recent visit of the Chinese Premier, Mr. Wen Jiabao to Ireland; and if the practice of Falun Dafa was discussed with him. [18783/04]
The Chinese Premier visited Ireland on 11 and 12 May as part of his first official visit to Europe. On 11 May he held official talks with the Taoiseach at Dublin Castle and I also attended. Premier Wen was accompanied by Foreign Minister, Mr. Li Ziaoxing, Minister of Commerce, Mr. Bo Xilai, and Minister for National Development, Mr. Ma Kai. We discussed regional and international issues of common concern, Ireland's bilateral relations with China, EU-China relations and political co-operation.
We also raised the issue of the human rights situation in China. It is frequently discussed with the Chinese authorities at national and EU level. During the discussions we outlined Ireland's strong commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Both sides expressed their ongoing commitment to the EU-China human rights dialogue. It is the formal framework through which the EU raises its concerns about human rights cases, including those of Falun Gong practitioners, and more general issues that have a particular impact on practitioners for example, the protection of freedom of religion and expression. We also emphasised that Ireland is willing to share our experience and expertise with China on human rights. We look forward to the first EU-China seminar on ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights that will take place from 30 June to 1 July in Beijing. The early ratification of the ICCPR would also be an important development in the legal protection of the civil and political freedoms of Chinese citizens, including followers of Falun Gong.
Both sides agreed on the importance of co-operation and dialogue in working together to bring about respect for international obligations. Premier Wen noted that the continuing EU-China human rights dialogue was particularly useful in this regard. He reported on the measures his Government are taking in the field of human rights. They included the addition of an express provision on human rights into China's constitution earlier this year.
Human Rights Abuses.
Richard Bruton
Question:25 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has considered the recently published Amnesty International report on the killing of civilians in Basra and al-’Amara in southern Iraq. [18774/04]
I welcome the report. It provides a useful and informative insight into the loss of life among the civilian population of southern Iraq who have been victims of terrorist attacks and armed conflict.
The report is further evidence that the security in Iraq is extremely serious. Ireland and our EU partners are acutely aware of it. We are aware of the serious impact it has upon the civilian population and the level of casualties that has been suffered by the Iraqi people.
GAERC, in its May conclusions, expressed its concern that the current campaign of terrorist violence is leading to significant loss of life, particularly among civilians. The continuing loss of so many lives underlines the urgent need to restore stability to this unfortunate country. I call for an end to the acts of terror that continue in Iraq. Such acts serve no useful purpose and are manifestly contrary to the best interests of the Iraqi people. I also urge the coalition forces to make every conceivable effort to avoid civilian casualties.
Last week the European Council referred to the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on the present human rights abuses and civilian casualties in Iraq. The report emphasised the importance of the effective protection and promotion of human rights.
Question No. 26 answered with QuestionNo. 22.
Gerard Murphy
Question:27 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention was drawn to the concerns of Amnesty International about the level of violence against women in Russia; and if he raised these concerns with the Russian administration. [18801/04]
My attention was drawn to Amnesty International reports on violence against women in the Russian Federation. As I have stated on previous occasions in this House, the reports raise serious human rights issues. The statistics presented by the organisation on fatalities from domestic violence in Russia highlight a disturbing problem.
It is clear from the report Rough Justice that Russia has faced difficulties in building new institutions for the protection of human rights following the end of the Soviet Union. Ireland has regularly raised the issue of human rights in Russia in international fora as well as bilaterally with the Russian Federation through diplomatic channels. During Ireland's Presidency of the EU we openly discussed the Union's concern about human rights with Russia. The first ad hoc EU-Russia consultations on human rights were held under the Irish Presidency.
Domestic violence is a serious human rights problem in many countries and there are no quick or easy solutions. A uniform application of laws covering crimes against the person is a step towards a solution. The attitude of police forces is of crucial importance for women who are victims of domestic violence. With this in mind, Development Co-operation Ireland contributed €230,101 in 2002 and €230,101 in 2004 towards a Council of Europe police training programme in Russia entitled Police and Human Rights beyond 2000. A proportion of these funds are earmarked for police training on the issue of domestic violence. The programme provides training to the participants from the Russian police forces in areas such as recognition of the signs of domestic violence, and steps to be taken in handling these situations. The programme includes discussion of methods to prevent domestic abuse. Participants are advised on how to conduct effective investigations in cases of domestic violence.
In addition to these measures at national level, Ireland believes that human rights must be a central part of the EU-Russia relationship. There is agreement within the European Union that the development of such relations should be based on respect for human rights.
Overseas Development Aid.
Enda Kenny
Question:28 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government will reach its target for overseas development aid by 2007. [18787/04]
Eamon Gilmore
Question:69 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention was drawn to recent comments during an EU conference on development aid at Dublin Castle from singer and activist Bono that the Government needs to be hurried along in terms of meeting its commitment to provide 0.7% of GNP to poorer countries each year; and his views on criticism of the Government by such an internationally respected figure. [18832/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 69 together.
Despite the many pressures on the public finances an allocation of €400 million was made in the 2004 Estimates to my Department's Vote for international co-operation. Elements of ODA that are administered by other Departments are expected to total €80 million this year. Total spending on ODA is expected to approach €480 million in 2004, the highest ever in the history of the programme. The level of expenditure demonstrates the Government's commitment to the attainment of the UN target.
In 2001 and 2002 our aid expenditure amounted to 0.33% and 0.41% of GNP, respectively. Provisional figures indicate that we maintained the percentage at 0.41% in 2003. This year it is likely to reach the same level or possibly exceed it. Ireland is one of the world's leading donors in percentage terms. At present we are in joint seventh place and well ahead of the EU average. The Government hopes that increased allocations, the scale and timing of which will be considered on an ongoing basis, will be possible over the coming years with a view to the achievement of our objective.
I chaired the recent informal meeting in Dublin Castle so I am aware of Bono's comments. As the Deputy will have seen from press reports about the meeting, Bono acknowledged in his remarks that the Government is serious about achieving the ODA objective of 0.7% of GNP. He has raised the awareness of development co-operation and the need for developed countries to increase ODA allocations. I welcome his interest in the issue and the role he has played in raising the issue around the world.
Foreign Conflicts.
Paul Kehoe
Question:29 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the political situation in Burundi. [18794/04]
Despite persistent difficulties, there has been significant political progress in Burundi since the signing of the Arusha Peace Accords in August 2000. It is a long time since the general prospects for peace have been so strong.
Last November agreements concluded between the Transitional National Government and the Conseil National pour la defense de la democratie-Forces pour la defense de la democratie or CNDD-FDD. Now there is only one, mainly Hutu, armed group, the Forces Nationales de Liberation outside of the peace process. Efforts are continuing to urge the FNL to resume peace negotiations with the government. These began in January but have since been suspended.
Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Zambia, Rwanda and Burundi make up the Great Lakes Regional Peace Initiative on Burundi. On 5 June their leaders met in Dar-es-Salaam. A three month deadline was set for the FNL to engage in talks with the Burundian Government with a view to concluding a ceasefire agreement.
The EU has consistently called for a comprehensive ceasefire. It urged the FNL to abandon its military campaign and commit to the peace process. This was done most recently in a declaration issued by the Presidency on 28 May.
On 3 May the CNDD-FDD announced its withdrawal from the Transitional National Government. It has also made clear that it has no intention of withdrawing from the peace process or of returning to violence. Efforts are continuing to bring about an end to the CNDD-FDD's withdrawal through satisfying its demand for the full level of representation within the transition institutions accorded to it in the November 2003 peace agreement.
Ireland, as EU Presidency, remained closely engaged with the Burundian peace process. We had a series of contacts with the Burundian Government since the murder of Archbishop Michael Courtney last December.
On 8 April I met President Ndayizeye and Foreign Minister Sinunguruza during my visit to Burundi. I reiterated the EU's full support for the current peace efforts and willingness to extend whatever assistance we can to further the peace process in Burundi. I also urged progress in implementing all of the provisions of the Arusha peace accords, including tackling impunity and safeguarding human rights. I raised ratification of the Statute of the International Criminal Court by Burundi as a step that would offer assurance of justice to all those who have suffered human rights abuses during the latter years of the conflict in Burundi. President Ndayizeye indicated that his Government is considering steps to ratify the statute.
The major priority for the Burundian Government and people in the coming months will be to intensify the transition process. It involves making a substantive start to the process of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration. Security sector reform and drafting of a new constitution and electoral law must also be undertaken. These steps must be accomplished if the timetable set in the Arusha Agreement of August 2000 to hold national elections by no later than 1 November 2004 is to be respected.
The EU is committed to supporting the electoral process in Burundi, including through the provision of financial assistance. It is also likely, in response to a recommendation of the Irish Presidency, that an EU electoral observation mission will travel to monitor elections in Burundi.
The efforts to ensure satisfactory completion of the transition process in Burundi have been greatly enhanced by the decision of the United Nations Security Council to deploy a UN peacekeeping mission, ONUB. It will have a mandate to oversee the remaining period of the transition up until the holding of scheduled national elections at the end of October. On 28 May the EU Presidency issued a declaration that welcomed the deployment of ONUB. It offered support for the implementation of its mandate that includes, not least, a significant human rights component.
Bernard Allen
Question:30 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in Senegal. [18769/04]
Last April Prime Minister Idrissa Seck resigned. He was replaced by Interior Minister Macky Sall, a leading member of the ruling Senegalese Democratic Party. The next legislative elections are scheduled to take place in 2006 and a presidential election is due to be held in 2007.
For many years there has been separatist movement among the Dialo community in the southern Casamance region of Senegal. In 1982 the Mouvement des forces démocratiques de Casamance took up arms to fight for Casamance's independence. Despite various peace initiatives, violence has continued sporadically since.
In May 2003 President Wade met a central political leader of the rebel MFDC and both sides made specific commitments to move the peace process forward. A ceasefire agreement was agreed towards the end of December 2003 with the armed faction of Fogny in the northwest area of the Casamance. The agreement, including demining, is in the process of being implemented.
Human Rights Abuses.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:31 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the discussions held with the Sudanese Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Mahmoud Hamid, at the high level donors’ consultations on Darfur, Sudan, in Geneva recently; the steps the EU can take to resolve the mounting humanitarian crisis in Darfur; and the manner in which the €1.5 million pledged by Ireland for assistance for the Darfur region will be allocated. [18830/04]
On 3 June I co-chaired the high level donors' consultations on Darfur in Geneva along with United Nations Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Jan Egeland, and the administrator of USAID, Andrew Natsios. The meeting was an opportunity to engage directly with the Government of Sudan and Darfur rebel groups. I highlighted the pattern of gross violations of human rights being practised by GoS backed militias, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians, rape, forced displacement and disappearances.
I held a separate meeting with the Sudanese Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Mahmoud Hamid. I demanded immediate and unrestricted access for aid workers and aid supplies to the most needy and vulnerable in Darfur. I am pleased to note that there has been improvement in access for Irish NGOs and others recently. I also stressed that it was the responsibility of the Sudanese Government to protect its citizens against militias in Darfur.
The Irish EU Presidency has taken every opportunity to highlight the situation in Darfur with our EU partners. I have written to my counterparts in the EU in relation to Darfur and raised the matter at the EU development Ministers informal meeting in Dublin on 1 June. At that meeting, Ministers supported the immediate deployment of the African Union ceasefire monitoring mechanism to oversee the monitoring of the ceasefire on the ground in Darfur. Financial support for this mechanism from the EU was confirmed at the European Council meeting in Brussels on 17-18 June. At the meeting in Geneva, I announced new EC humanitarian assistance for Darfur amounting to €10 million. This is in addition to individual pledges by EU member states.
Ireland allocated €2.5 million for immediate humanitarian assistance in Darfur. The funding is being dispersed to humanitarian agencies best placed on the ground to deliver life-saving assistance to the worst affected. Funding has already been delivered in support of the humanitarian programmes of Concern and the UN World Food Programme. Further funding is being considered for other relevant humanitarian agencies.
UN Conference.
Eamon Ryan
Question:32 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the outcome of the UN Conference on Trade and Development held in mid-June in Brazil. [18860/04]
I led the Irish delegation to the UN Conference on Trade and Development, UNCTAD XI, held in Sao Paolo, Brazil from 13 to 18 June. It also included my colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Michael Ahern. The official delegation also included two representatives of Dóchas, the umbrella organisation for Irish development NGOs.
In my address to UNCTAD, on behalf of the EU, I highlighted the EU's commitment to securing a successful outcome to the Doha development round of trade negotiations. I outlined the significant internal reforms the EU has undertaken, particularly in the agricultural sector, and the flexibility we have demonstrated in our negotiating position. I also spoke of the initiatives we have taken to invigorate the negotiations, including proposals aimed at maximising the benefits of the round for least developed countries and other weak and vulnerable economies.
The leadership role adopted by the EU at the Sao Paolo UNCTAD XI ministerial was based on the thorough preparations of the Irish EU Presidency. A key element of the EU preparations for the conference was the discussion and adoption by the General Affairs and External Relations Council of the EU's overall strategy for UNCTAD XI. The strategy identified the following three areas as priorities for UNCTAD over the coming four years: integrating trade and investment into national development policies and poverty reduction strategies; regional integration and south-south trade; and commodity dependence and poverty.
The degree to which these priorities are addressed, in the documents agreed in Sao Paulo, clearly reflects the EU's positive and proactive engagement in the conference. At the UNCTAD XI meeting UN member states agreed a political declaration entitled The Spirit of Sao Paulo and a negotiated document entitled The Sao Paulo Consensus. These decisions adopted at UNCTAD XI are essential instruments in the UN member states' continued commitment to support UNCTAD in fulfilling its mandate as the focal point within the UN for the integrated treatment of trade and development.
International Agreements.
Olwyn Enright
Question:33 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the position of the Government with regard to the recent United Nations resolution on Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18781/04]
Kathleen Lynch
Question:60 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the United Nations Security Council will be able to bring forward a resolution to set out clearly the road to Iraqi sovereignty before the hand-over to a caretaker Government at the end of June 2004; his further views on whether the US Government will insist it retains its grip on decision-making through US-appointed committees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18839/04]
Dan Boyle
Question:68 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Irish Government’s approach to the recent UN Security Council resolution on Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18854/04]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 33, 60 and 68 together.
Resolution 1546 on Iraq was adopted by the United Nations Security Council on 8 June 2004. The resolution endorses the formation of a sovereign interim government which will assume full responsibility and authority by 30 June for governing Iraq. It welcomes the ending of the occupation by that date and the reassertion by Iraq of its full sovereignty. It reaffirms the right of the Iraqi people to determine their political future and to control their financial and natural resources. The resolution endorses the proposed timetable for Iraq's political transition to democratic government, spells out the role of the United Nations and reaffirms the authorisation for a multinational force, which is the subject of an exchange of letters.
Ireland, nationally and as Presidency of the European Union, welcomed the adoption of Resolution 1546 on Iraq by the Security Council. The unanimous adoption of the resolution conveys the support of the international community for the transfer of sovereignty to an interim Iraqi Government. This broad international support will help to stabilise the situation in Iraq. In particular, I hope it will mark a new and successful stage with the UN playing a key role in the process of political and economic reconstruction in Iraq.
The interim Iraqi Government was appointed on 1 June 2004. The Iraqi Governing Council has now disbanded and full sovereignty is due to be transferred to the interim Government on 30 June in accordance with Security Council Resolution 1546. No provision is made for US-appointed committees. I welcome the formation of a new interim Iraqi Government and wish it every success in governing Iraq to the point at which free and fair elections can take place.
Arms Trade.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:34 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress that has been made in tightening up the EU code of conduct on arms exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18859/04]
Ireland was actively involved in the establishment of the EU code of conduct on arms exports, which was adopted by the EU General Affairs Council in June 1998. The code, which is politically binding on all EU member states, sets out factors to be taken into account when deciding whether to allow the export of military goods. These factors include respect for human rights, the internal situation in the country of final destination and the preservation of regional peace, security and stability. A review of the code of conduct, which was initiated during Ireland's Presidency of the EU, is currently under way to take account of developments since the code entered into force in 1998. A number of proposals to strengthen and update the code are being considered including a proposal to reinforce its status by transforming it into a legally binding EU common position. Ireland is supportive of such a reinforcement.
Representatives from several EU member states, including Ireland, met with a number of non-governmental organisations, NGOs, last month to discuss and exchange views on the ongoing review of the code. Ireland also circulated to our EU partners for consideration suggestions made by NGOs for possible improvements to the code. The examination of the code of conduct with a view to reaching agreement on revisions is continuing.
Foreign Conflicts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:35 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the political situation in Macedonia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18803/04]
In the three years since the violent conflict in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia there has been remarkable progress in the establishment of political stability and the implementation of far-reaching reforms in co-operation with the European Union. On 2 April, the then Prime Minister of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Mr. Branko Crvenkovski, was elected President of the country, to replace the late President Boris Trajkovski. Earlier this month, on 2 June, the former Minister of the Interior, Mr. Hari Kostov, was formally approved by Parliament as Prime Minister. His Government represents continuity with its predecessor in terms of policy and personnel. It is a coalition led by the main Slav party, the SDSM, in partnership with the largest ethnic Albanian party, the DUI. It remains fully committed to the implementation of the Ohrid framework agreement, which ended the 2001 conflict and which provides the basis for progress in the development of closer relations between the EU and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
The Taoiseach, in his capacity as President of the European Council, formally accepted the application for membership of the EU from the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia at a ceremony in Dublin on 22 March. The application was presented by Prime Minister Crvenkovski leading a delegation representing the two main communities in the country and the cross-party support for closer relations with the European Union. The General Affairs and External Relations Council considered the application at its meeting on 17 May and requested the European Commission to prepare its opinion for presentation to the Council. This process is expected to take about one year. The EU continues to work closely with the Government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to consolidate peace and stability. The Ohrid framework agreement, which was brokered by the EU, has as its objective the creation of a truly multi-ethnic state. It provides for a series of constitutional amendments to safeguard minority rights, strengthen local government and secure equitable representation for the two main ethnic communities at all levels in the state administration. Important progress has been made in implementing the agreement, but the Government recognises that further efforts are needed, especially in relation to the legislative proposals now before Parliament for the decentralisation of authority from central to local government and the revision of municipal boundaries.
In the period ahead, the EU will play a close co-operative role in support of the reform process, politically, economically and in terms of security. The stabilisation and association agreement with the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, which was concluded in October 2001, entered into force on 1 April, the first of these agreements between the EU and the countries of the region to do so. The EU is continuing to help address the security challenges through the EU police mission, Proxima. The EU will also decide soon on the appointment of a new special representative in Skopje, to replace Mr. Soren Jessen-Petersen, who will take up the position of special representative of the UN Secretary General in Kosovo later in the summer.
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:36 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the political situation in Kosovo; the numbers currently serving with KFOR; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18785/04]
The security situation in Kosovo has stabilised since the outbreak of ethnically-motivated violence in March. However, the situation remains tense and there have been a number of further violent incidents, including the brutal killing of an ethnic Serb youth on 5 June. It is clear that the recent violence poses a serious challenge to all those working to build a multi-ethnic Kosovo in which all its citizens can live in peace and security, as foreseen in UN Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999. During Ireland's EU Presidency, the European Council and the General Affairs and External Relations Council have paid close attention to developments in Kosovo. The EU has reiterated its strong support for the UN mission in Kosovo and for the special representative of the UN Secretary General in their efforts to implement Security Council Resolution 1244. The EU has also reaffirmed its commitment to the policy of standards before status and to the standards implementation process and has called on Kosovo's political leaders to demonstrate unambiguously their commitment to a multi-ethnic Kosovo and to the protection of the security and rights of minority communities. It is important that all parties co-operate in order to achieve practical results from the standards process in the months ahead. This must involve the participation of Kosovo Serb representatives and the resumption of the direct dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, which has been suspended since March.
Last week, on 15 June, I chaired the first ever EU Troika ministerial meeting with Serbia and Montenegro. I encouraged Foreign Minister Vuk Draskovic to use the influence of the Belgrade authorities to persuade the representatives of the Kosovo Serb population to re-engage in dialogue on reconstruction, security, and the restructuring of local government, in the interests of all the people of Kosovo. On 11 June, the special representative of the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Harri Holkeri, resigned from his position for health reasons. I express the Government's appreciation for his work in Kosovo over the past year, which he undertook with the same sense of dedication and commitment demonstrated when he was one of the co-chairmen of the multi-party talks leading to the Good Friday Agreement. The European Council on 18 June welcomed the announcement by the UN Secretary General that he intends to appoint Mr. Soren Jessen-Petersen as his new special representative. Mr. Jessen-Petersen is currently the EU special representative in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
The year ahead will be a difficult one in Kosovo, which retains the potential to cause instability in the wider region. Elections will be held in October and it is still hoped that sufficient progress will have been made on the UN's standards implementation plan to enable a review of progress in mid-2005. In response to the difficulties of recent months, the UN is examining the issue of how UNMIK might be restructured to better meet the needs of the situation. The EU is considering ways in which it can enhance its role in support of the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1244. Whatever the outcome of eventual consideration of the final status question, it is clear the long term future of Kosovo will be in the context of a multi-ethnic society with its place secure in the region and in Europe.
There are currently 213 Irish troops serving with KFOR, the UN-mandated peacekeeping force in Kosovo. I express again today the appreciation of the Government for the role being played by members of the Permanent Defence Force in Kosovo and especially for their courageous and effective handling of the difficult situation in March. Earlier this week, the Government agreed to continue to provide a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force for service with KFOR for a further period of 12 months beyond June 2004.
David Stanton
Question:37 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on current relations between India and Pakistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18799/04]
As Deputies will be aware, historically relations between India and Pakistan have often been difficult. Indeed, on two occasions in 2002 these nuclear-armed countries again came close to the brink of conflict. The situation in Kashmir remains serious. There have nonetheless recently been encouraging political developments in this important bilateral relationship. New Delhi and Islamabad have begun a composite dialogue, which includes the issue of Kashmir. A ceasefire along the "line of control" has been in place since 25 November 2003.
Following bilateral talks on the margins of the South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation, SAARC, summit, held in Islamabad on 5 January 2004, the President of Pakistan and the then-Prime Minister of India announced in a joint statement to the effect that they had agreed to commence a process of composite dialogue. On 18 February 2004, the foreign secretaries of India and Pakistan met and agreed to modalities for the composite dialogue, which would lead to a meeting of the two Governments, at the more senior level of Foreign Ministers in August 2004. The recently-elected Government in India, led by Dr. Manmohan Singh, has announced publicly that it is committed to continue the composite dialogue with Pakistan and to discuss all relevant issues, including the Kashmir conflict, terrorism and nuclear questions.
In accordance with the agreed modalities for the composite dialogue, expert level talks on nuclear confidence building measures were held in New Delhi on 19 and 20 June 2004, at which it was agreed to upgrade the existing emergency telephone hotline between the directors general of military operations and to establish a similar system at the level of foreign secretary. The progress achieved at the talks will be reported to the respective foreign secretaries of India and Pakistan, who will meet in Delhi on 27 and 28 June 2004 as foreseen in the agreement on the modalities for the composite dialogue. Discussions will cover the issues of Kashmir and nuclear confidence-building measures. Foreign Ministers Natwar Singh of India and Mahmud Kasuri of Pakistan met on 21 June 2004 and had bilateral discussions in the margins of the third Asia co-operation dialogue in Qingdao, China. The discussions, which have been described as warm and productive by Minister Singh and significant by Pakistan's foreign ministry, indicate the continuing political commitment for the peace process following the change of Government in India. The Foreign Ministers are due to meet within the process of the composite dialogue in August 2004.
Ireland, together with our EU partners, and indeed the broad international community, attaches the greatest importance to these significant and positive developments in relations between India and Pakistan. There is widespread hope that these will lead to progress in resolving long-standing difficulties and that improved relations between New Delhi and Islamabad will advance peace and stability in the region. The EU stands ready to support both countries in their efforts to reduce tension and to seek a lasting solution to their outstanding differences — in any way considered appropriate by both parties. In mid-February 2004, in my capacity as Presidency, I led an EU Troika mission to India and to Pakistan. The troika reiterated the European Union's very positive disposition towards the composite dialogue and the efforts of the two Governments. Following the Troika missions, the General Affairs and External Relations Council adopted conclusions on 23 February. The Council welcomed the start of composite dialogue between Pakistan and India and reiterated that the European Union is ready, at the request of the parties, to assist in any way that may be appropriate.
Human Rights Issues.
Simon Coveney
Question:38 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the political situation in Zimbabwe; if during the Irish Presidency of the European Union, there has been formal contact between the EU and Zimbabwe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18771/04]
The political situation in Zimbabwe continues to deteriorate and remains a cause of serious concern for Ireland and EU partners. The decline in respect for human rights and the rule of law persists. Arbitrary arrests and political violence continue. Inflation now stands at over 600% and the World Food Programme estimates that over half the population will require food aid this year, despite the predictions of the Zimbabwe Grain Marketing Board, GMB, and the decision on the part of the Government not to request international general food aid. The conduct of the Zengeza and Lupane by-elections in March and May 2004, respectively, was marred by violence, intimidation and irregularities. The EU stated, in a Presidency declaration, that the electoral environment of these elections cannot be deemed to have been free, fair or safe for voters. In response to both elections the EU called on the Government of Zimbabwe to allow every political party an equal level of electoral freedom to prevent instances of violence and intimidation in the pre-election period. This is of particular importance in view of the parliamentary elections scheduled for March 2005. The political dialogue initiated between the EU and Zimbabwe to address ongoing concerns was closed in February 2002 when it became clear that the Government of Zimbabwe was not willing to engage on any meaningful level. The lack of progress by the Government of Zimbabwe on these issues is reflected in the EU's Common Position on Zimbabwe, which was renewed in February 2004. The Council renewed sanctions on those individuals whom the EU regards as bearing the main responsibility for serious violations of human rights in Zimbabwe. The sanctions are targeted exclusively against the political elite and include a travel ban and assets freeze, as well as an arms embargo.
EU concerns with respect to Zimbabwe have been raised in dialogue with our African partners. This was done at the EU-Africa and EU-South Africa ministerial meetings which I chaired in Dublin on 1 and 2 April 2004. The Irish Presidency arranged for the EU's Common Position on Zimbabwe to be formally communicated to all members of the Southern African Development Community. We also reiterated our willingness to engage with the Government of Zimbabwe but only on the basis of an established set of governance-centred benchmarks. The EU has no formal political contact with the Government of Zimbabwe. EU heads of mission in Harare do, however, engage with the authorities when delivering démarches expressing our concern at specific events or general policies condemned by the EU.
The EU does not wish to pursue a policy of isolation in relation to Zimbabwe. It has identified a number of governance-centred benchmarks for the Government of Zimbabwe to implement. Satisfaction on these benchmarks would open the way towards normalisation of EU relations with Zimbabwe. The EU is strongly committed to the welfare of the Zimbabwean people, as evidenced by its allocation of over €370 million of humanitarian assistance to the citizens of Zimbabwe over the 2002-04 period. Development Co-operation Ireland, DCI has also made €8 million in emergency and humanitarian assistance available for the affected countries in southern Africa, of which €3 million went to Zimbabwe. DCI also provided funding of over €2 million to five development projects in Zimbabwe. All of this aid is channelled through the World Food Programme, UNICEF, the Red Cross and other international NGOs.
Question No. 39 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Illegal Immigrants.
Paul Connaughton
Question:40 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the plight of the undocumented Irish in the United States of America will be discussed at the upcoming EU-US summit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18780/04]
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:57 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the plight of thousands of undocumented Irish immigrants in the USA, the fact that many are reluctant to return home for funerals and so on due to immigration controls at Shannon, are vulnerable to exploitation at their place of employment and are unable to obtain a driver’s licence or health coverage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18746/04]
Pat Rabbitte
Question:75 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if it is intended to raise with President Bush during the EU-Ireland summit the position of undocumented Irish in the United States and urge him to take steps to regularise their position; the representations he has made generally to the US authorities on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18827/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 40, 57 and 75 together.
In our capacity as Presidency of the European Union, Ireland will host the forthcoming EU-US summit on 26 June. The main issues for discussion will relate to foreign policy, economic and trade relations and other areas of shared EU-US interest. Due to the nature of the meeting, it would not be appropriate to raise bilateral issues such as the situation of undocumented Irish people in the USA. It may be, however, that there will be an occasion to do so bilaterally. I assure the Deputies that this issue has been directly taken up in bilateral contacts with US political leaders. When I visited Washington in March, I met a number of prominent politicians there and took the opportunity to flag our concerns about the position of Irish immigrants in the USA. In particular, I welcomed the proposals made earlier this year by President Bush, by Senators Tom Daschle and Chuck Hagel and, more recently, by Senator Edward Kennedy. These proposals represent genuine efforts to deal with the situation of the undocumented in the USA in a constructive and sympathetic way. While there appears to be no prospect of a formal amnesty for the undocumented at the present time, the Daschle-Hagel and the Kennedy proposals in particular appear to offer undocumented Irish people an opportunity to obtain permanent legal residency. As these proposals will have to be approved by the US Congress, it is too early to say what changes or amendments may be made in the course of their consideration. I will continue to monitor the progress of both initiatives through the US Congress closely in the coming months.
In the meantime, I am aware that, as a result of increased security controls following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, it is becoming harder for undocumented foreign nationals in the USA to obtain social security cards and driving licences. While we will continue to do what we can, from a humanitarian point of view, for Irish citizens who are affected by these new controls, the best hope for the future is early progress on the legislative proposals to regularise the status of the undocumented in the USA. I assure the Deputies therefore that, through the ongoing efforts of our embassy in Washington and through my own contacts with political leaders in the USA, I will continue to encourage and support measures that would benefit Irish citizens in that country.
EU Constitution.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:41 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the outcome of the EU constitutional treaty negotiations; and if he will specify all instances where the outcome fell short of Irish demands. [18867/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, agreement was reached by EU Heads of State or Government on the constitutional treaty on 18 June. It is a particular honour for Ireland that it was possible to do so in the course of our Presidency of the European Union. The constitutional treaty represents a compromise agreement between 25 sovereign member states and builds on the excellent work of the convention to ensure that the Union enhances its capacity to act effectively and meet the demands and expectations of its citizens. Reaching such a compromise required that the key concerns of all member states were listened to and accommodated as far as possible.
Before the IGC, the Government indicated its broad satisfaction with the convention draft while making clear that a few key issues needed to be addressed further. These were the retention of unanimity in regard to all taxation matters; the maintenance of appropriate safeguards in the area of criminal law and ensuring that the Union would be equipped to play a more effective role internationally, while also guaranteeing that Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality was fully protected. On all three issues, we are fully satisfied with the outcome. The constitutional treaty sets out a balanced institutional framework which respects the rights of all member states, large and small.
Partnership for Peace.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:42 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs Ireland’s current position on the PfP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18871/04]
The basic principles underlying the Partnership for Peace, PfP, as set out in the PfP framework document of January 1994, remain unchanged. This document sets out the political purposes of PfP which include the protection of human rights; the safeguarding of freedom, justice and peace; the promotion of democracy; the maintenance of the principles of international law; and the fulfilment of the obligations of the UN Charter, and of OSCE commitments. A key principle which applies is that of self-differentiation whereby each PfP country determines the nature, scope and limits of its participation. A key aspect of PfP membership, from Ireland's perspective, lies in the core principle of self-differentiation, whereby each country participates according to its own interests and priorities. This principle remains at the core of PfP activity.
Making its own choices, Ireland continues to benefit in particular from experience gained in the peacekeeping area, especially through the development of enhanced interoperability which is contributing to the ongoing improvement of our ability to undertake peacekeeping operations in a safe and effective manner. Ireland also continues to take part in the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council, the political umbrella body for participants in PfP. Following the enlargement of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation in April 2004, the number of non-NATO countries participating in PfP has fallen from 27 to 20. This development does not have any direct impact on Ireland and the nature of our participation in PfP. However, the future role of Partnership for Peace is one of the topics that will be considered at the forthcoming meeting of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council meeting at Heads of State and Government level to take place in Istanbul on 29 June 2004.
UN Reform.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:43 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the steps the Government took during the period of the Irish Presidency of the European Union in relation to UN reform and the promotion of the principle of UN primacy within the European Union. [18865/04]
A central theme of Ireland's Presidency has been the promotion of a more effective multilateralism and the strengthening of the rules-based international order, with the United Nations at its centre. This was an urgent task given the international divisions that prompted Secretary-General Annan to state at the United Nations last September that the United Nations "had come to a fork in the road". One of the particular concerns which Secretary-General Annan pointed to last year was the need to reform the UN system. He drew attention to the inefficiency in the UN General Assembly which led to important substantive issues being crowded out by, as he put it, "repetitive and sterile debates". The current President of the General Assembly, Julian Hunte, the Foreign Minister of St. Lucia, has been an active promoter of revitalisation of the General Assembly. The EU, under Ireland's leadership, has worked hard in New York to support this process so that the working methods of the UN General Assembly are more efficient and its agenda is made more manageable. The EU has also worked hard in New York to reform and streamline the UN budgetary process.
Secretary-General Annan also drew attention to the widely held perception that the UN Security Council was not broadly representative of the UN membership and needed to be reformed. Ireland, nationally, remains centrally involved in the discussion of Security Council reform and supports an increase in the membership of the Security Council, in both the permanent and non-permanent categories, to reflect today's realities. However, there is no common position among European Union partners on this issue due to diverging perspectives and aspirations and therefore this is one aspect of UN reform on which the EU collectively does not pronounce in substantive terms. The divisions of last year posed serious questions about the future of the multilateral system and the primacy of the United Nations.
The Government believed it was vital for its EU Presidency to harness the considerable and growing economic and political profile of the European Union to strengthen the United Nations and increase the capacity of and confidence in the multilateral system. This approach took a number of concrete forms in the Irish Presidency programme. The Irish Presidency has worked closely with the EU Council Secretariat and the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations in the implementation of the EU-UN Joint Declaration on Co-operation in Crisis Management of September 2003. A Presidency paper elaborating modalities under which the EU could provide military capabilities in support of the UN was endorsed by the European Council last week. I formally presented this paper to UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, in New York yesterday. The Secretary General welcomed the paper's content and the efforts of the Irish Presidency in this area.
The Presidency paper identifies two main options for EU support to the UN in military crisis management including the establishment of a clearing-house process to enable EU member states to co-ordinate their contributions to a given UN operation and deployment of EU rapid response operations in response to a request from the UN. Work on a complementary document on civilian aspects is being taken forward by the appropriate Council bodies. Last November, Secretary General Annan established a high-level panel on threats, challenges and change composed of eminent international figures to analyse the nature of current and future threats to peace and security and assess how best international action could meet these challenges. The EU has made a written contribution, co-ordinated by the Irish Presidency, to assist the work of the panel. This contribution stresses, inter alia, the importance of dealing with long-standing challenges such as poverty and under-development as well as ensuring greater Security Council involvement in tackling more recent threats such as the global terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The EU contribution underlines the need for sustained international engagement with societies threatened with conflict or just emerging from conflict.
The EU, under Ireland's Presidency, has engaged actively with key regional partners on the issue of effective multilateralism. To heighten the profile of this issue, the EU has agreed declarations with the African Union, Latin America and the Caribbean and with our Asian partners in the Asia-Europe Meeting, ASEM, which reaffirm support for an effective multilateral system. This was also an important issue in at last Tuesday's EU Summit with Japan in Tokyo.
My meeting yesterday at the United Nations in New York with Secretary General Annan was very productive. We reviewed the European Union's support for the United Nations across a range of areas during Ireland's Presidency, as well as a number of pressing international issues. I assure the House that the Secretary General expressed deep appreciation of Ireland's work as EU Presidency to promote and advance EU-UN co-operation.
Nuclear Disarmament Initiative.
Michael Noonan
Question:44 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Libya; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18782/04]
On 19 December 2003, Libya announced its intention, following negotiations with the UK and US, to eliminate all materials, equipment and programmes which lead to the production of internationally proscribed weapons. In the months since, the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, has been working closely with the Libyan authorities to gain a complete picture of its nuclear programme. A resolution, adopted on 10 March 2004 by the board of governors of the agency, welcomed Libya's voluntary decision and requested it to provide continuing co-operation and full disclosure while agreeing to report past non-compliance to the Security Council for information purposes. The latest report by the director general of the agency, Dr Mohammed El Baradei, published on 1 June, was delivered at the most recent meeting of the IAEA board of governors in Vienna this month. The report confirms that Libya has proactively co-operated with the agency by providing information and prompt access to all locations requested.
The IAEA is making good progress in understanding Libya's past nuclear activities. However, some aspects still need to be assessed and it is important that Libya facilitate this by providing the necessary information. One important aspect is co-operation with the agency investigation into the illicit trafficking in nuclear materials and the origins of such materials. Full and close co-operation by all third countries with the agency is also essential in the clarification of outstanding questions. Ireland fully supports the work of the IAEA in verifying the dismantling of the Libyan programme and looks forward to the next report of the director general of the IAEA on further progress in Libya at the next board of governors meeting in September.
Ireland has also welcomed Libya's accession to the chemical weapons convention and subsequent declaration of its chemical weapons agents. As with the IAEA's verification activities, we are looking forward to Libya's continued co-operation with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons with regard to fulfilling its obligations to comply with the requirements of the convention.
Question No. 45 answered with QuestionNo. 15.
State Visits.
Joan Burton
Question:46 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he intends bringing to the attention of US President George Bush during his visit here for the EU-US summit the ongoing protests from the Irish public at the use of facilities at Shannon Airport by the US military for operations in the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18826/04]
The EU-US summit takes place at Dromoland Castle on 26 June 2004. The agenda for the meeting will include substantive and wide-ranging discussion on matters of mutual interest to the EU and the USA, including the situation in Iraq. With regard to the use of Shannon Airport by the USA, this is a long-standing practice which has been in place for several decades and spans a period which has seen a number of conflicts involving the USA. The Deputy will be aware that a resolution to continue to make the Shannon Airport facilities available was approved by the Dáil in March 2003. I am sure President Bush will be also briefed on the other views on this issue which are held here.
Overseas Development Aid.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:47 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the steps the Government took during the period of the Irish Presidency of the European Union in relation to the EU’s role in achieving the UN millennium development goals on the halving of global poverty by 2015. [18864/04]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions References Nos. 14611/04 and 14608/04 of 19 May last on this same issue. From the outset of the EU Presidency, Ireland has promoted strong leadership by the EU on the millennium development goals, MDGs. In January 2004, we used the occasion of the annual orientation debate on the effectiveness of the EU's external actions at the General Affairs and External Relations Council. GAERC, to highlight the central importance of the MDGs to the EU's foreign and development policies. The GAERC adopted conclusions which state that achieving the MDGs is a key objective for the European Union and the wider international community and that the commitments made by EU member states at the 2002 Monterrey conference on financing for development reflect the Union's leadership role in international efforts to achieve the MDGs.
UN member states have agreed to convene a major event — possibly a summit at Head of State or Government level — in New York in September 2005 to review progress towards achieving the MDGs in the period 2000 to 2005. As most of the MDGs have set 2015 as the target date for their achievement, the 2005 review meeting in New York will be the first major milestone on the road to 2015. Ireland believes that the EU should contribute to this UN stocktaking exercise through a co-ordinated EU report. At the GAERC on 27 April, on the basis of a Presidency initiative, Ministers mandated the Commission to co-ordinate an EU input to the September 2005 UN stocktaking. The Council conclusions provide that each member state must submit a national MDG report to the Commission on the basis of an agreed reporting format. The Commission will then synthesise these national reports into a joint EU report which, after discussion and approval by Ministers, will be submitted to the UN next year. The Council conclusions make clear that the national MDG reports must pay particular attention to MDG 8 — global partnership for development — which embraces such issues as levels of official development assistance, debt and trade. This particular goal is most relevant to donors and needs to be examined in detail in the national MDG reports.
On 1 June last, I hosted an informal meeting of EU development Ministers where we reviewed the effectiveness of EU development policy with a particular emphasis on strengthening its contribution to the achievement of the MDGs and meeting the Monterrey commitments. The European Council on 17 and 18 June concluded that the EU must continue to strengthen its leadership role in the fight against global poverty and expressed concern at the faltering progress towards the achievement of the MDGs, especially in Africa. The EU leaders also reiterated that the Union will intensify its efforts to fulfil the commitments undertaken in Monterrey regarding funding for development and will strongly support UN attempts to accelerate progress towards the achievement of the MDGs. In addition to these actions at the European Council and the GAERC, the Presidency has used every possible opportunity to highlight the importance of the MDGs and to promote the EU's view that development policies and programmes need to be aligned with the objectives of the goals. In his address on behalf of the EU to the spring meeting of the UN's Economic and Social Council with the Bretton Woods institutions and the World Trade Organisation, the Minister for Finance, Deputy McCreevy, called for greater policy coherence at national and international levels and for UN members to meet the commitments made at the international conference on financing for development in March 2002.
I am satisfied that during our Presidency we have helped place the MDGs at the centre of the EU's development and foreign policies. We have also taken initiatives that will ensure the EU continues to focus its attention on the MDGs and will play a leading role in the UN's review of progress towards the MDGs in September 2005.
Human Rights Issues.
Paul Connaughton
Question:48 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the information now available concerning the treatment of prisoners in Iraq, the Government has satisfied itself with arrangements in place to ensure that prisoners being held in Guantanamo Bay in Cuba are being humanely treated; if the holding of these prisoners without trial and away from international observation will be raised with the President of the United States during the EU-US summit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18777/04]
As the Deputy is aware, I have previously expressed to the House the Government's concern that the detainees in Guantanamo Bay be treated in accordance with the provisions of international human rights and humanitarian law. The United States authorities are well aware of the Government's position which has been conveyed to them on a number of occasions. These concerns were conveyed to the US embassy in Dublin by my Department and raised by the Taoiseach when he met President Bush on 17 March in the White House. In all contacts with the US authorities on the issue we have been assured that they are keenly aware of their obligations under international humanitarian law. Dr. Jakob Kellenberger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, during a visit to Ireland in January, stressed his organisation's position that under the Geneva Convention, the Guantanamo detainees should be given the status of prisoners of war unless a competent tribunal decides otherwise. As the Deputy knows, this has not been the situation with these detainees. This continues to be the consistent view of the Government also.
The USA is well aware of international concern about this issue. The matter is also before the US Supreme Court where a judgment is expected before the current court session concludes. Together with our EU partners, the Government recognises the danger posed by terrorist networks such as al-Qaeda and is committed to working with the USA and all our other international partners in the fight against international terrorism. However, the Government and our EU partners are concerned that any action taken in the fight against terrorism should be fully in accordance with the provisions of international human rights and humanitarian law. The Deputy will also be aware of the Taoiseach's statement on the abuses of Iraqi prisoners being detained at the Abu Ghraib prison made on 14 May.
The agenda for the forthcoming EU-US summit at Dromoland Castle covers a very broad array of international matters. While the precise issues which will be raised within the broad agenda have still to be fully finalised, I assure the Deputy that our views on this matter are already very well known to the US authorities.
Arms Trade.
Simon Coveney
Question:49 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government intends to give public support to a campaign by Oxfam and Amnesty International to control the global arms trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18802/04]
As I have stated previously to the House, I am aware of a process led by a number of non-governmental organisations, NGOs, including Amnesty International and Oxfam, aimed at the development of an international arms trade treaty. This treaty is intended to be a legally binding agreement with core principles and mechanisms relating to the international transfers of arms. A welcome aspect of the proposed treaty is that it has the objective of setting out states' existing international legal obligations in the area of the international transfers of arms. In addition, once ratified the draft framework treaty would enable the international community to move forward incrementally by means of subsequent more specific instruments. While work on the drafting of the text is still ongoing, it is a promising initiative and I commend the NGOs concerned for their efforts.
The proposed treaty is also under discussion within the EU at working group level. An official of my Department participated in a conference held last November at Cambridge University in England, the purpose of which was to examine the text of the draft treaty. I understand that the text of the proposed treaty is currently being re-examined from a legal perspective by those NGOs involved in the arms control campaign who met last February in Costa Rica and that as a consequence of those discussions revisions to the text are to be made. An official from my Department also attended an international workshop, Enhancing the International Export Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons — the Case for an International Arms Trade Treaty, which took place in Helsinki earlier this month. There was broad representation at the workshop, both from Governments and NGOs. Ireland will continue to be associated with the process and will closely monitor developments.
Northern Ireland Issues.
Paul McGrath
Question:50 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the proposed disbandment of the PSNI full time reserve will have security implications for Northern Ireland which may impact upon Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18793/04]
The phasing out of the full-time reserve is a core recommendation of the Patten report. The PSNI Chief Constable and the Northern Ireland Policing Board devised and agreed a comprehensive human resources strategy in October 2002 which included reference to the full-time reserve. Under the strategy and in the context of a lack of deterioration in the security situation, the full-time reserve is due to be phased out over an 18-month period beginning in April 2005.
In regard to the question of the security implications of the phase out of the reserve, I assure the Deputy that I have every confidence that the Chief Constable and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, in agreeing the human resources strategy, were guided by the overriding need to ensure public safety and security on both parts of this island. Moreover, the Chief Constable stated in January 2003 that the phasing out of the full-time reserve would be subject to a further security review to ensure that the PSNI would not be left short-staffed by the plan to end contract renewals in April 2005. We understand that the review is expected in the autumn. The conclusions of the review will be subject to further discussions between the Chief Constable and the policing board in the context of the human resources strategy.
The Government is conscious that April 2005 also coincides with the expiry of the current mandate of the Patten Oversight Commission. The report of the Oversight Commissioner at this time will serve as an occasion for a fundamental stock-take of the implementation of all of the Patten recommendations, including its recommendation regarding the full-time reserve.
Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Dan Boyle
Question:51 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the changes to the draft EU constitution proposed by the Irish Presidency to the June 2004 summit in the field of common security and defence policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18855/04]
Ciarán Cuffe
Question:56 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Irish Presidency’s proposals for enhanced co-operation on defence issues in the EU constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18857/04]
Ciarán Cuffe
Question:80 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs to elaborate on the new Article I-40(7) proposed by the Irish Presidency in the draft EU constitution on mutual defence; the way in which the specific character of Ireland’s security and defence policy is not prejudiced when the commitments and co-operation in this area shall be consistent with commitments under NATO; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18856/04]
I propose to answer Question Nos. 51, 56 and 80 together.
The foreign policy, security and defence proposals in the draft constitutional treaty were discussed in detail by the Intergovernmental Conference under the then Italian EU Presidency in 2003. Following a meeting of Foreign Ministers in Naples on 28 and 29 November 2003, the then Presidency produced a revised package of proposals on defence, structured co-operation and the solidarity clause which achieved consensus. These proposals represented a significant improvement on the original convention proposals in this area which had been problematic for a number of member states including Ireland and the other neutral and non-aligned partners. In particular, the concerns of Ireland, Finland, Sweden and Austria, who conferred closely at the time on the issue of mutual defence, were resolved by the post-Naples text. Although no formal political agreement was reached on these proposals, they secured a wide measure of consensus among EU partners, including among our fellow neutral and non-aligned EU member states, at the subsequent meeting of the Intergovernmental Conference held in December 2003. Against this background, no necessity arose for the Irish Presidency to bring forward new proposals in these areas. In keeping with this, the draft security and defence provisions were included in the paper of closed issues presented to the meeting of foreign Ministers on 17 and 18 May 2004. On this basis, they were subsequently incorporated in the overall agreement reached last week by EU Heads of State and Government.
In relation to Article 40.7 of the treaty, I underline that the agreement reached has fully retained the safeguard clause included at the instigation of Ireland and our fellow neutral and non-aligned member states. This makes clear that the obligation to come to the aid of another member state in the event that it is attacked is without prejudice to the specific character of the security and defence policy of certain member states. Ireland retains the right to take its own sovereign decision to come to another member state's assistance in the event of an armed attack. This is in keeping with the Government's position on non-participation in a mutual defence commitment as set out in Ireland's national declaration at the European Council in Seville on 21 June 2002. As regards references to commitments to NATO, the Deputy will note that upon inspection of the text of the draft treaty article in question, it will be clearly seen that these are only of relevance to EU member states which are also members of that organisation.
Foreign Conflicts.
Seymour Crawford
Question:52 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the security and political situation in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18766/04]
As Afghanistan prepares to hold elections in the autumn, the security situation in the country is a source of concern. This concern is fuelled by an increasing number of attacks on personnel involved in preparations for elections, continued factional fighting in the north west and the recent deplorable murders of foreign nationals involved in humanitarian and reconstruction work. It is important that the international community should remain focused on how best to support Afghanistan in the period ahead. The decision of the UN Security Council to authorise an expansion of the NATO-led international security assistance force in Afghanistan, ISAF, through provincial reconstruction teams, PRTs, is an important development in this regard. It is now envisaged that the NATO summit which will take place in Istanbul on 28 June 2004 will devise an operational plan for the expansion of ISAF and that a further number of PRTs will be deployed before the elections.
I am pleased to inform the House, on behalf of my colleague, the Minister for Defence, Deputy Michael Smith, that Ireland will continue to provide seven members of the Permanent Defence Force for a further period from July 2004 for service with ISAF in Kabul, subject to ongoing review. In order to ensure a secure environment in Afghanistan, it is important that all irregular forces are disarmed and demobilised or integrated into the national army. I welcome the steps already taken towards this end, but much more needs to be done so that the future Afghan government has unified armed forces at its disposal. To this end, I strongly urge all concerned to make a full commitment to the vigorous implementation and intensification of the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration process. The elections which are scheduled for September 2004 will constitute the next and final step in the implementation of the Bonn agreement of December 2001 on arrangements for the re-establishment of permanent government institutions in Afghanistan. For the elections to be credible, a successful registration process is needed.
The special representative of the United Nations Secretary General recently reported to the Security Council on the ongoing preparations for the elections and indicated that while the preparations are well under way, concerns remain over funding for the elections and the possibility that lack of security could lead to under-registration in some provinces. As of 16 June, some 4 million Afghans, out of an estimated 10.5 million eligible adults, had registered to vote. Some 36% of those who have registered are women. The electoral authorities in Afghanistan have established a target budget of $101 million to conduct the elections and have received pledges of approximately $70 million. Officials in my Department are in discussion with the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, to transfer Irish funding of €800,000 to support the conduct of the elections. The European Commission is currently putting in place arrangements for effective EU support for the elections. This support will include the deployment of a democracy and election support mission to be distributed across the major regional centres as the security situation permits. The European Commission has committed €24 million towards the total cost of the electoral registration process.
To support Afghanistan's overall reconstruction the EU committed some €2.3 billion at the 2002 Tokyo Conference to cover the five-year period 2002 to 2006. Ireland on that occasion pledged €12 million which has been disbursed in full. At the follow-up conference, Afghanistan and the International Community — a Partnership for the Future, held in Berlin at the end of March 2004, I reiterated — in my EU Presidency capacity — the European Union's continuing firm commitment to Afghanistan's reconstruction. Ireland on that occasion pledged a further €5 billion to be expended over the next two years.
The House will be aware of the grave problems that flow from the resurgence of poppy cultivation in Afghanistan. Ireland, together with our EU partners, fully supports the Afghan transitional authority's uncompromising stance on the illicit cultivation of and trafficking in drugs. Afghanistan will continue to face many serious challenges in the period ahead and will therefore continue to need extensive support from the international community. Ireland and our partners in the European Union are determined to play our part in this process.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:53 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in the Congo and the level of aid from Ireland that will be dispatched to the Congo for 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18772/04]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:101 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which the UN and the EU during Ireland’s Presidency has examined the situation in the Congo with a view to alleviation of starvation, human rights abuses and war; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18961/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 53 and 101 together.
The peace process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC, remains largely on track, although recent events have underlined the fragility of the transition process established under the Sun City peace accords of 2002. There is a clear need for accelerated progress in implementing the transition if lasting peace and security are to be achieved in the country and indeed in the wider Great Lakes region. The most serious recent incident has been the capture of Bukavu in eastern DRC on 2 June 2004 by rebel forces formerly linked to the RCD Goma movement. This gave rise to protests in Kinshasa and several other Congolese cities directed against MONUC, the UN operation in the DRC, which resulted in a number of civilian fatalities. The European Union took the lead internationally in condemning the capture of Bukavu, issuing a declaration which also condemned the human rights violations accompanying the violence in Bukavu as well as all foreign interference in the DRC. The EU's prompt response assisted in stabilising the situation and encouraging efforts to resolve the crisis peacefully. Bukavu has now returned to governmental control though the overall security situation in eastern DRC remains tense. An attempted coup against the transitional national Government of President Kabila took place in Kinshasa on 11 June but this was quickly quashed without any casualties. In recent days, there have been reports of a substantial troop build-up by Government forces in the eastern DRC but this appears to be more an attempt to assert the transitional Government's authority throughout the entire country than for any other purpose.
The priority now is for all sides in the DRC to re-dedicate themselves to completing the transition process, in line with the Sun City peace accords. The European Council, meeting on 18 June, has called upon the Congolese leadership to fully assume its responsibility in this regard and has urged accelerated progress, in particular, in completing the process of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration, DDR, and establishment of an integrated national army and police. The European Council also called upon all neighbouring countries and, in particular Rwanda, to do all in their power to support the peace process in the DRC. Support for the peace process in the DRC has been a major ongoing priority of the Irish Presidency and the EU is already actively contributing to strengthening the transitional institutions and helping them to extend their authority throughout the territory of the DRC.
Apart from financial support for the process of DDR, the EU is also providing support, in a two-phase project, towards the establishment of an integrated police unit in Kinshasa, with the emphasis in the initial phase on training and rehabilitation of the training infrastructure. This follows the successful deployment of the EU-led emergency multinational force, Operation Artemis, in the town of Bunia in Ituri province last summer which paved the way for the subsequent deployment of the strengthened MONUC operation last autumn. The EU continues to co-operate closely with the UN and MONUC regarding events in the DRC and is willing to extend any practical assistance it can to MONUC to facilitate implementation of its mandate.
Recent events in the DRC have also underlined the importance of the regional dimension to building peace in the DRC and the Great Lakes region. The European Union fully supports, and has been actively engaged, through the EU special representative for the Great Lakes region, in the preparations for the proposed international conference on the Great Lakes region which is currently scheduled to begin in November 2004. The conference will focus on peace, security, democracy and development in the Great Lakes region and will be held under the auspices of the African Union and the UN. Under our Presidency, the EU has continued to be prominent in raising violations of human rights in the DRC at the UN Commission on Human Rights in Geneva. The Irish Presidency was instrumental in securing a consensus resolution on the human rights situation in the DRC at this year's session. The resolution condemns the ongoing human rights violations still occurring in eastern DRC and provides for appointment of an independent expert to continue monitoring and reporting on the situation. To date in 2004, bilateral funding of over €1.5 million has been allocated by Ireland to the DRC. Of this, over €600,000 has been disbursed to non-governmental organisations, NGOs, providing basic health care for internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups. Over €900,000 is being provided this year to Concern for longer-term development assistance under Development Co-operation Ireland's multi-annual programme scheme. In 2003 development assistance amounting to over €2.7 million was provided to the DRC by Ireland. Ireland is also a key contributor to the World Food Programme which is engaged in providing emergency food needs for internally displaced persons and returnees in the DRC.
International Disputes.
Pádraic McCormack
Question:54 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in East Timor and on the negotiations between East Timor and the Australian Government regarding maritime boundaries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18778/04]
With continuing support from the international community, including from Ireland and the EU as a whole, the Government and people of Timor Leste have continued to make good progress in building up their country, including through the development of their economy and in the consolidation of their democratic institutions. On 18 February 2004, the United Nations Secretary General provided a report on Timor Leste to the Security Council. He observed that remarkable achievements had been registered by the new state. In previous reports, he had already commented on advances in the areas of governance, enactment of legislation, rehabilitation of infrastructure, responsible development planning and budgetary discipline, the country's regional integration, and, most importantly, the commitment to democratic norms and personal freedoms. Secretary General Annan in his February 2004 report, also declared that a modest additional effort on the part of the international community would be invaluable in allowing Timor Leste to reach a threshold of self-sufficiency.
On 21 May 2002, the United Nations Security Council established a UN Mission of Support in East Timor, UNMISET. On 14 May 2004, by Resolution 1543 (2004), the Security Council authorised, as recommended by the Secretary General, the extension of UNMISET for a consolidation phase and anticipated that its mandate would be completed on 20 May 2005. On 19 May 2004, UNMISET handed over all official responsibility for policing and external security to the Government of Timor Leste. Resolution 1543 highlights the need to ensure against impunity for those who have committed criminal acts. It stresses in particular the need for the serious crimes unit, set up under UNMISET, to investigate serious crimes committed in the period leading up to Timor Leste's independence, to complete all investigations by November 2004, and to conclude trials and other activities no later than 20 May 2005. The resolution calls for continued and co-ordinated donor and UN support to Timor Leste. Finally, it calls on the UN Secretary General to report to the Security Council every three months on the situation in Timor Leste.
Despite continued progress, and the achievements of the past three years, Timor Leste continues to face a number of major challenges. These include the building up of support for core administrative capacities, strengthening the justice system and creating a favourable climate for sustainable social and economic development. Timor Leste remains one of the poorest nations in the world and there remains a critical need for the continued support of the international community.
Negotiations on the definition of maritime boundaries can be complex. Timor Leste and Australia make overlapping claims to parts of the continental shelf in the Timor Sea, an area understood to contain large reserves of oil and gas. Pending agreement on the maritime boundary between the two countries, Australia and Timor Leste concluded the Timor Sea Treaty in May 2002, which accords to Timor Leste 90% of the revenue from a joint development area in the Timor Sea. This issue was discussed at the EU-Australia ministerial Troika on 21 January, when Foreign Minister Downer advised us that Australia is committed to resolving this issue with Timor Leste. The issue was also discussed at official level in an EU-Australia Troika meeting at Brussels on 10 June. I understand in the meantime, that negotiations continue to take place at official level to resolve the wider maritime boundary dispute.
In March 2003, the Government announced that Ireland had accorded Timor Leste programme country status for development co-operation purposes. This announcement reflects a recognition of the significant progress made to date in Timor Leste and demonstrates our continuing commitment to the political and socio-economic development of Timor Leste and the promotion of good governance and human rights in these crucial formative years. The Ireland Aid Timor Leste country strategy covers the period 2003-05 and provides for funding of more than €11 million. Ireland will continue to play its part in the provision of ongoing international support for Timor Leste and will continue to follow developments there very closely.
Diplomatic Representation.
Michael Ring
Question:55 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if it is usually the case that the diplomatic bag is used by Government to send party political election literature to civil servants on missions overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18786/04]
I refer the Deputy to my earlier reply to a priority question on this subject. It is the Department's practice to allow officers serving abroad and members of their families residing with them use of the diplomatic bag facility to send and receive private correspondence. At election time, it has also been the practice to automatically forward to officers serving abroad and their spouses any personally-addressed election literature received in the Department. It is important when exercising their fundamental and democratic right to vote that citizens do so on an informed basis. I take the view that it is appropriate in the circumstances of service abroad, where the transmission of election material can help to inform the constituent, to use the diplomatic bag for this purpose.
At the end of May, the Fianna Fáil Party asked if the Department would forward to each of the Department's registered postal voters election literature in the form of a single, generically-addressed letter from the party leader and that request was acceded to. The Department would have equally agreed to a similar approach from other parties. In the light of subsequent expressions of concern about the issue, I announced on 6 June that a review of procedures would be conducted. I also indicated that the outcome of the review would be conveyed to the political parties and made publicly known, so that all candidates for election and other interested parties would be fully aware of it. It is accepted that the arrangements now need to be put on a more structured basis. The review is under way and I expect to be able to inform interested parties of new procedures at a reasonably early date. In this regard, the Deputy can be assured that the new arrangements will ensure that the process is fully transparent, and known to all interested parties at election time.
Question No. 56 answered with QuestionNo. 51.
Question No. 57 answered with QuestionNo. 40.
John Perry
Question:58 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had contact with the authorities in Saudi Arabia with regard to the murder of an Irish national in Riyadh in June 2004; the number of Irish nationals currently in Saudi Arabia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18790/04]
An Irish national was tragically killed in Saudi Arabia earlier this month. Our embassy in Riyadh extended all possible consular assistance to the family of this individual and has had numerous contacts with the Saudi Arabian authorities in relation to the case. We have emphasised to them the importance of protecting the lives of expatriates in Saudi Arabia and have called for the killers of this person to be brought to justice. I understand that a memorial service was held in London on Tuesday at which the Irish embassy in London was represented. I am sure I speak for all members of the Dáil in extending our deepest sympathy to the family. The number of Irish citizens in Saudi Arabia at the moment is currently estimated at around 1,300 to 1,400.
Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:59 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the steps the Government took during the period of the Irish Presidency of the European Union to promote the demilitarisation of the EU and the status of the neutral States within the EU. [18866/04]
I welcome the Deputy's interest in matters relating to demilitarisation. His question is best answered through reference to Irish Presidency achievements in the areas of conflict prevention and civilian aspects of EU crisis management activity. Conflict prevention has been a central element of Ireland's EU Presidency work programme and was the subject of a report by the Presidency approved by the June European Council. Covering the period of the Irish and Italian Presidencies and drawing on the outcome of the conflict prevention conference held in Dublin from 31 March to 2 April, this report can be considered the most substantive document on EU conflict prevention activities since the Swedish Presidency's EU programme for the prevention of violent conflicts of 2001. Against the background of recommendations contained in the European security strategy setting, the report sets out an analysis of EU activities in the conflict prevention area and identifies the significant challenges that remain in addressing root causes of conflict, escalation of conflict and post-conflict stabilisation. The report underlines the need to undertake further work in the area of early warning and to examine more closely the link between security and development. It recommends that work on conflict prevention takes account of the broader preventative agenda, as set out in the European security strategy. I am satisfied that a firm basis now exists for ongoing work on these issues under the incoming Dutch Presidency and beyond.
I am also pleased to report that Irish EU Presidency has made very significant progress towards ensuring a continuing and appropriate balance between military and non-military aspects of European security and defence policy, ESDP. In particular, agreement was reached with our EU partners on a specific Irish initiative which has resulted in adoption by the European Council of an important and substantive action plan on civilian aspects of ESDP. A further EU capabilities conference in this area will take place in November. As regards military aspects of European security and defence policy, I underline to the Deputy that these relate to the issues of peace-keeping and crisis management. Solid progress was also made in this area under the Irish Presidency, including through agreement on how such EU capabilities could be deployed in support of the United Nations. Ireland will continue to have the possibility to take part in EU crisis management operations, authorised by the United Nations, on a case-by-case basis.
Finally, I am happy to assure the Deputy that the status of neutral states within the EU, including Ireland, has remained fully upheld and accepted by the entire Union membership throughout our Presidency.
Question No. 60 answered with QuestionNo. 33.
Seymour Crawford
Question:61 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the situation in Tibet has been discussed recently by the European Union Council of Ministers; when Tibet will next be discussed by the Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18797/04]
Ireland established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1979, and has, from that time, recognised Tibet as an integral part of China. While both the European Council and the General Affairs and External Relations Council, GAERC, have considered aspects of the EU relationship with China on several occasions over the last year, there have been no recent discussions at the European Council on Tibet as a separate issue, nor am I aware of any plans to have such discussions in the near future. With regard to the human rights situation in Tibet, the Government has consistently called on the Chinese authorities to respect fully the rights of the Tibetan people. We will continue to address our ongoing concerns regarding the protection of human rights in Tibet, both bilaterally and within the framework of the EU-China human rights dialogue. It is the considered view of the Government that the dialogue is the most effective form of engagement with China on human rights issues. It is a method that has led to constructive discussions and one which also offers the most effective means of raising and following up on individual cases of concern.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:62 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the envisaged creation of a new EU diplomatic service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18858/04]
Article III-197 (3) of the constitutional treaty states that in fulfilling his or her mandate, the Union Minister for Foreign Affairs shall be assisted by a European external action service. This service shall work in co-operation with the diplomatic services of the member states and shall comprise officials from relevant departments of the General Secretariat of the Council and of the Commission as well as staff seconded from national diplomatic services of the member states. The organisation and functioning of the European external action service shall be established by a European decision of the Council. The Council shall act on a proposal from the Union Minister for Foreign Affairs after consulting the European Parliament and after obtaining the consent of the Commission.
An accompanying declaration states that as soon as the treaty establishing a constitution for Europe is signed, the Secretary General of the Council, the high representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, the Commission and the member states should begin preparatory work on the European external action service. I expect that work to establish the European external action service will commence later this year. It is not intended or envisaged that the European external action service should supplant the diplomatic services of the member states but rather that it should enhance the Union's capacity for co-ordinated action internationally. I look forward to Ireland playing a full role in the service's development.
Foreign Conflicts.
Olivia Mitchell
Question:63 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in Liberia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18775/04]
Under the terms of the comprehensive peace agreement of August 2003, Liberia is currently administered by a transitional Government under the chairmanship of Mr. Gyude Bryant until parliamentary and presidential elections are held before the end of 2005. One of the key challenges facing the transitional Government is to pave the way for free and fair elections. In this respect, the National Electoral Commission, NEC, of Liberia was reconstituted under the terms of the comprehensive peace agreement to take account of the new situation obtaining in Liberia since the departure into exile in August 2003 of former President Charles Taylor. The NEC is currently engaged in voter registration and civic education programmes in collaboration with international organisations and under the supervision of the United Nations. On 11 May 2004, the international contact group on Liberia — of which the EU is a member alongside, among others, the UN and the African Union — urged all Liberian parties to engage constructively in preparations for the 2005 elections and underlined the need for the National Election Commission to operate effectively.
Despite recent improvements in the security situation in areas which are under the control of the United National Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, and progress in the implementation of the comprehensive peace agreement, the peace process remains fragile. Monrovia is now a weapons-free zone but the situation is less stable in other areas. Sporadic outbreaks of fighting in rebel strongholds highlight the need for a comprehensive process of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration. The programme of disarmament, demobilisation and rehabilitation, DDR, for rebel groups, co-ordinated by UNMIL, recommenced on 15 April 2004, after an earlier launch last December had been postponed. UNMIL is currently operating with approximately 14,500 military personnel on the ground, with a total authorised strength of 15,000. Its current one-year mandate is due to be renewed by the UN Security Council in September 2004.
The Government has deployed a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force to participate in the UN peacekeeping mission UNMIL. The Irish contingent comprises a motorised infantry battalion, of some 430 personnel, including the deployment of a small number of personnel at force headquarters in Monrovia. The Government is of the view that the deployment of UNMIL is critically important in supporting the implementation of the comprehensive peace agreement and for the political and economic recovery of Liberia. Our personnel have been widely commended for the professionalism of their work. On 5 and 6 February 2004, the Liberia reconstruction conference was held in New York. The Minister of State, Deputy Kitt, represented the EU and announced $200 million in EC assistance, as well as a further €5 million in funding from Ireland. Ireland will continue to encourage all parties in and around Liberia to carry out their commitments and obligations under the comprehensive peace agreement. We will lend active support to the work of the United Nations special representative in Liberia, Jacques Klein, and to the EU special representative for the region, Hans Dahlgren of Sweden.
Overseas Development Aid.
Brendan Howlin
Question:64 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the outcome of the recent EU conference on development aid at Dublin Castle; his views on whether the “Everything but Arms” agreement negotiated by the EU in 2001 to ensure the 49 poorest countries in the world have unrestricted access to EU markets for all goods other than sugar, rice, and bananas, is working effectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18833/04]
On 1 June 2004, I chaired an informal meeting of EU development co-operation Ministers at Dublin Castle. Ministers had a very useful meeting on a number of issues of relevance to the global development debate. The EU is the largest provider of aid worldwide. With a population since enlargement of 450 million, the EU is now in an even stronger position to make a real difference to the lives of poor people in the developing world. To do that, we have to use our aid effectively and implement coherent policies that will contribute to poverty reduction. At the beginning of Ireland's Presidency, we said that poverty eradication should be the central objective of the Union's development policy. In the long-run, meeting the millennium development goals, MDGs, will be the yardstick for our performance.
At our meeting in Dublin Castle, Ministers discussed a number of issues which would help to advance these priorities, including: the need for greater aid effectiveness to ensure that development co-operation is well managed and that EU aid quality continually improves; the importance of a strong voice for development within the European Commission; the relationship between development and security — where we recognised that there can be no long-term development without creating secure environments, but equally, that long-term security is dependent on sound development; and the appalling humanitarian situation in Darfur, Sudan, in respect of which we expressed support for the efforts of the African Union, AU, to establish a ceasefire monitoring mechanism for Darfur and backed the immediate deployment of the AU ceasefire monitoring mechanism to oversee the ceasefire on the ground. The development campaigner, Bono, joined us at lunch for a discussion of debt and trade issues.
Under the "Everything but Arms", EBA, initiative, which was agreed by the European Union in February 2001, the 49 least developed countries, LDCs, both within and outside of the African, Caribbean and Pacific, ACP, group, have gained duty and quota-free admission to the Community market for all but three products from March 2001. In three sensitive commodity sectors, full and free access will be achieved more slowly and on a phased basis by 2006 for bananas and by 2009 for rice and sugar. The EBA initiative is a particularly significant breakthrough for the LDCs as it offers market-free access in areas such as agricultural and textile products in which they are most likely to be competitive and which, up to now, have been highly protected. Only moderate gains have been achieved from the EBA initiative to date. I urge the LDCs to make every use of the general quota and duty-free access to the EU to which they are now entitled.
I refer also to the related issue of current negotiations on economic partnership agreements, EPAs, between the EU and the ACP states. Under the Cotonou agreement, the current all-ACP non-reciprocal tariff preferences will be maintained only until 31 December 2007. This agreement introduced a framework for the negotiation of new reciprocal trading arrangements between the EU and the ACP states known as EPAs. EPAs should help to reduce and eventually eradicate poverty, increase ACP competitiveness and the gradual integration of ACP states into the world economy. EPAs are mandated to enter into force from 2008 until 2020. ACP states are able to enter into such arrangements individually, or as part of a group, the latter intended to build upon existing regional integration schemes. EPA negotiations have now commenced between the EU and West Africa, Central Africa, the Caribbean, and East and Southern Africa.
Decentralisation Programme.
John Bruton
Question:65 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the decentralisation of the civil servants responsible for overseas development aid programmes may harm these programmes, as recently opined by the chief executive officer of a major charity here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18788/04]
I assume the Deputy is referring to an article attributed to the CEO of Concern which appeared in The Irish Times on 24 May 2004. As the Deputy will be aware, this was a wide-ranging article which covered a number of issues, including the decision to decentralise the development co-operation directorate of the Department of Foreign Affairs to Limerick. The decentralisation implementation group, established last December by the Minister for Finance, recommended in its report of 31 March 2004 that each Department and agency participating in the decentralisation programme prepare its own implementation plan. The Department of Foreign Affairs’ initial plan is in the final stages of preparation by the Department’s decentralisation committee, which has been tasked with managing the decentralisation of the development co-operation directorate and the other aspects of decentralisation which will impact on the Department. The plan will require updating over the lifetime of the decentralisation project, as additional information emerges and issues about which there remains uncertainty, particularly in the HR area, are clarified and agreed between Civil Service management and unions.
The decentralisation of the development co-operation directorate will pose challenges. The Department's implementation plan will seek to identify and address those challenges, including in areas such as service and business continuity, corporate memory, efficiency and effectiveness and financial management. The article to which the Deputy refers acknowledges that the quality of the Government's aid programme is high and that this was verified by the OECD's peer review, published at the end of 2003. I am confident that the approach which I have outlined above will ensure that there will be no detrimental impact on the high quality of the Government's overseas development co-operation programme.
EU Presidency.
John Deasy
Question:66 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the total cost to the taxpayer of Ireland’s Presidency of the European Union; the value of sponsorship which was associated with the Presidency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18792/04]
It is not possible for me to indicate the total cost to the taxpayer of the Ireland's Presidency of the European Union as each Department and State body involved in the Presidency has been provided with a Presidency budget and is responsible for its own expenditure and costs. I cannot, at this stage, say what is the total cost incurred by the Department of Foreign Affairs as there are a number of invoices outstanding. In some cases where invoices have been received, officials are checking them against expected costs and seeking clarification where necessary. My Department is in contact with the relevant suppliers in relation to agreeing these costs and we would hope to be in a position to finalise the Department's expenditure in the near future.
It is envisaged that the Department of Foreign Affairs will incur costs in the following areas: salaries and allowances, travel and subsistence, training, accommodation, transport, catering, media and communications. Miscellaneous costs will include printing and signage etc.
The Department of Foreign Affairs availed of sponsorship arrangements offered by Eircom, Audi, Tipperary Water and Kerrygold. Support was also received from a number of local organisations and companies. While it is not possible to provide at this time the total value of the sponsorship, the Deputy may wish to note that by the end of the Presidency, Eircom and Audi between them will have supplied goods and services worth approximately €5 million. This has helped to ensure that the approximately 230 meetings, including ministerial level meetings, held in Ireland ran smoothly and efficiently. Tipperary Spring Water and Kerrygold also supplied their products free of charge for every ministerial level meeting in Ireland as well as for meetings in Brussels.
Foreign Conflicts.
Pat Breen
Question:67 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the political situation in Sri Lanka. [18798/04]
On 23 February 2002, a formal ceasefire agreement was signed with Norwegian facilitation between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, LTTE, and the Sri Lankan Government. Despite the LTTE's withdrawal from the peace talks on 21 April 2003 and the ongoing political difficulties on the island, the ceasefire has continued to hold. On 4 November 2003, President Kumaratunga relieved three senior Government Ministers of office and personally assumed their powers. President Kumaratunga was reportedly concerned about LTTE proposals on an interim administration for the north and east of the country and claimed that the Government, led by then-Prime Minister Wickramasinghe, was making too many concessions to the LTTE side. She announced that talks with the LTTE had been postponed indefinitely. A state of emergency was declared and Parliament was prorogued for two weeks.
On 8 February 2004, President Kumaratunga dissolved Parliament and called for elections to be held nearly four years ahead of schedule. In the general election which took place on 2 April 2004, President Kumaratunga's United People's Freedom Alliance, UPFA, coalition won 46% of the parliamentary seats. This was eight seats short of an overall majority. Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe's United National Party won only 38%. On 10 April 2004, President Kumaratunga formed a coalition Government with the People's Liberation Front, JVP. The new Prime Minister is Mahinda Rajapakse of the UPFA.
Following President Kumaratunga's re-election, in a major policy shift the Government announced in a statement on 9 May 2004 that it now recognises the LTTE as the principal Tamil party for the purposes of negotiating a permanent peace. The statement indicated that peace talks had to be between the two main parties — the government and the LTTE. The LTTE has continued to reaffirm its commitment to the peace process and abide by the terms of the February 2002 ceasefire. During a visit to Sri Lanka by the Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister on 12 May, the LTTE announced that they had agreed with the Government to restart peace talks.
A co-chairs conference took place in Washington on 17 February 2004 as a follow-up to the June 2003 Tokyo donor's conference on Sri Lanka. The co-chairs consist of the EU, Japan, the US, and Norway, the last in view of its position as facilitator of the peace process. Co-chairs are responsible for monitoring progress towards peace and advising on actions by the donor community. A further co-chairs conference took place in Brussels on 1 June 2004. Following the conference, the co-chairs emphasised the importance of preserving the gains already made in the peace process and called on both parties in the process to bear in mind the principles of the Tokyo declaration. Stressing that there should be no delay in resuming the peace process, the co-chairs called on donors to stand ready to accelerate the delivery of their Tokyo pledges once properly prepared peace talks have resumed. In a speech on 12 June 2004, President Kumaratunga reaffirmed her Government's commitment to the ceasefire and to negotiations with the LTTE on preparing an agenda for the recommencement of peace talks.
The EU stands ready to support Sri Lanka in resolving this issue. On 4 November 2003, the Presidency of the European Union, in conjunction with the European Commission, issued a statement urging the parties involved to continue to work together in support of a negotiated political solution. From 24 to 27 November 2003, EU External Relations Commissioner, Mr. Chris Patten, visited Sri Lanka where he held meetings with both Government representatives and the LTTE. An EU election exploratory mission took place from 16 to 19 February and an EU election observation mission was deployed for the elections on 2 April. Through various channels, both Ireland and the EU will continue to take all appropriate opportunities to encourage the parties concerned to bring the peace process to an early, successful conclusion.
Question No. 68 answered with QuestionNo. 33.
Question No. 69 answered with QuestionNo. 28.
EU Accession.
David Stanton
Question:70 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the ongoing contact between Turkey and the European Union regarding possible membership of the Union and on the efforts being made by Turkey to meet accession criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18768/04]
The Helsinki European Council in December 1999 decided that Turkey is a candidate country destined to join the European Union on the basis of the same criteria applied to other candidate states. The Copenhagen European Council in December 2002 made the clear commitment that if the European Council meeting in December 2004 decides that Turkey has fulfilled the Copenhagen political criteria, the EU will open accession negotiations without delay. The political criteria require a candidate country to have achieved stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities. December's decision will be taken on the basis of a report and recommendation by the Commission, which will be prepared following extensive consultation with the Turkish authorities under the terms of the revised accession partnership between the EU and Turkey.
The Government has welcomed the remarkable and sustained progress made by Turkey in recent years in legislating for reform. Most recently, on 7 May the Turkish Parliament approved a significant package of constitutional amendments which include provision for the abolition of the State Security Courts, further measures to bring civil-military relations into line with EU standards and to strengthen freedom of the press and the insertion of a constitutional clause on gender equality. The measures also remove all references in the constitution to the death penalty, which has been abolished in all circumstances. I welcome the decisions taken recently in implementation of the reforms, especially the decision to begin Kurdish language broadcasts on radio and television. The Government has had regular contact with Turkey throughout Ireland's EU Presidency. The Taoiseach has had a series of discussions with Prime Minister Erdogan, who was most recently in Brussels for the meeting of the Intergovernmental Conference on 17 and 18 June. I represented the EU at the EU-Turkey Association Council in Brussels on 18 May and also held very useful bilateral discussions with Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul. Foreign Minister Gul informed us of plans for further legislative reform in the months ahead.
The European Council on 18 June welcomed the significant progress made to date by Turkey in the reform process, including the important and wide-ranging constitutional amendments adopted in May. It also welcomed the continued and sustained efforts of the Turkish Government to meet the Copenhagen political criteria and emphasised the importance of concluding the remaining legislative work and accelerating efforts to ensure decisive progress in the full and timely implementation of reforms at all levels of administration and throughout the country. The European Council reaffirmed the commitment that if the December European Council decides that Turkey fulfils the Copenhagen political criteria, the EU will open accession negotiations with Turkey without delay. The EU will continue to assist Turkey in its preparations and to work towards full implementation of the pre-accession strategy.
Foreign Conflicts.
Dinny McGinley
Question:71 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the ongoing violence in Chechnya, the situation was discussed with the Russian Administration at the recent high level meetings in Moscow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18804/04]
I take this opportunity to condemn most strongly the attacks in Ingueshetia which have caused a significant loss of life this week. No cause can ever justify acts such as these.
The Taoiseach raised ongoing EU concerns about the situation in Chechnya with President Putin at the EU-Russia Summit in Moscow on 21 May. I also raised these concerns at the meetings which I had with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov during the Irish Presidency.
The Taoiseach expressed the EU's strong condemnation of recent terrorist attacks in which Chechen and Russian people have been killed, including Chechen President Akhmad Kadyrov. Ireland and the EU recognise Russia's territorial integrity, and its right and responsibility to protect its people from attack. The Taoiseach underlined, however, that respect for human rights is essential to the fight against terrorism and to building a lasting peace.
The European Union, which has already provided €120 million in humanitarian assistance over the last five years, restated its willingness at the summit to offer further humanitarian assistance to the region, provided that the very difficult security situation allows. In response, President Putin expressed his appreciation of EU assistance to date, and his determination to move forward on democratisation and reconstruction in Chechnya.
The EU looks forward to a free and fair presidential election in Chechnya on 29 August. This could provide an opportunity for progress on reconciliation, and for the promotion of peace, stability and development in Chechnya. The EU believes that a lasting solution to the situation in Chechnya requires a political settlement which guarantees protection for human rights and which commands the support and confidence of the Chechen population.
Human Rights Issues.
Joe Costello
Question:72 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to the letter of protest sent by the Israeli Government expressing disgust at his statement that Israeli forces had displayed disregard for human life during the military operation in Gaza’s Rafah area; if he sent a reply to the Israeli Government following receipt of their letter; the content of any such letter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18836/04]
I have received no letter from the Israeli Government concerning any statement of mine. I am aware that the Israelis expressed dissatisfaction at some of my comments on the activities of their forces in the Gaza Strip in May which had also been the subject of criticism by the UN Security Council and the broad international community, but this has not been the subject of correspondence.
EU-US Summit.
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:73 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the possible recognition by the United States of America of the International Criminal Court will be discussed at the upcoming EU-US summit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18779/04]
The United States of America signed the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court in December 2000. However, in May 2002 the US informed the Secretary General of the United Nations that it did not intend to become party to the statute, and that it accordingly had no obligations arising from its signature.
The objections of the US to the International Criminal Court are based on its view that US citizens and in particular its military forces, could be subjected to politically motivated prosecutions before the Court.
As I have stated previously, while I recognise these concerns I do not share them. The jurisdiction of the ICC is complementary to national jurisdictions, meaning that the court will become involved in a case only where a state with jurisdiction over a crime is unable or unwilling genuinely to carry out an investigation or prosecution. The Rome Statute contains strong and carefully drafted safeguards to prevent politically motivated prosecutions. I would also point to the integrity, character and professional qualifications of the persons who have been elected to serve as prosecutors and judges of the court.
This view is shared by our EU partners. In recent years, approaches have been made to the US on behalf of the EU, outlining the EU position on the court and urging US support for it. In addition, the EU council conclusions on the ICC of 30 September 2002 recall the shared objective of the EU and US of individual accountability for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community, and call for a broader dialogue between the EU and US on all matters relating to the ICC.
I am satisfied that the US is fully apprised of the EU's position in respect of the ICC and I wish to reiterate my hope that, in time, the ICC will come to enjoy universal support, based on the common interest of all states in seeing that the most heinous crimes of international concern do not go unpunished.
Middle East Peace Process.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:74 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the response he received to his call for a ceasefire in the Middle East which he raised when attending a recent meeting of foreign ministers of the Group of Eight industrialised nations in Washington; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18837/04]
The recent meetings of the G8, both at foreign ministerial level and at the summit, included useful discussions on the Middle East peace process. The main purpose of the G8 Foreign Ministers' meeting on 14 May was to prepare for the summit. The G8 meetings took place after the New York meeting of the Quartet on 4 May. As the Deputy will be aware, the Quartet welcomed the efforts of the Government of Egypt to achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire. The importance of a ceasefire was understood by all G8 Foreign Ministers. At the G8 meetings, there was general agreement on the need for international action in support of the peace process and at the summit it was agreed that the Quartet should meet again before the end of this month. The statement on the Middle East issued after the G8 summit urged the Government of Egypt to continue its important work in this regard.
Question No. 75 answered with QuestionNo. 40.
EU Presidency.
Richard Bruton
Question:76 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the progress made during Ireland’s Presidency of the European Union with regard to achieving the goals set by the Lisbon Agenda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18805/04]
As I outlined to the House on 19 May, the Irish Presidency has made significant progress in advancing the Lisbon Agenda. It focused the spring European Council on the central Lisbon goals of promoting sustainable economic growth while delivering more and better jobs. It also secured major progress on legislative dossiers in the areas of financial services, competition, mobility, intellectual property rights, consumer protection, health, environmental protection and infrastructural development. The implementation of these dossiers by member states will advance the Lisbon Agenda significantly. The June European Council also endorsed the updated broad economic policy guidelines and employment guidelines, providing for the integration of the new member states into these policy areas that are fundamental to the achievement of the Lisbon goals. The Taoiseach will report to the House shortly on the outcome of the June European Council, including with regard to the progress on the Lisbon Agenda during Ireland's Presidency term.
Human Rights Issues.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:77 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the affiliation of any proposed interim Government in Iraq, or indeed any future Government, to the International Criminal Court; his views on the fact that those responsible for abuses in Iraq by the occupying forces should be brought before the International Criminal Court; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18824/04]
Ireland, together with its EU partners, supports the widest possible participation in the International Criminal Court, ICC. Currently, 94 states are parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC and an additional 50 are signatories to it. As President of the Council of the EU, Ireland drew up a target list of countries to be approached by the EU during our presidency with a view to increasing the number of states parties to the Rome statute. This was done in accordance with the EU action plan on the ICC finalised earlier this year. In accordance with this target list, a series of bilateral démarches have been carried out by or on behalf of the Irish Presidency in all regions of the world and the issue of the ICC has also been mainstreamed in ongoing EU dialogue with third countries.
To date, Iraq has neither signed nor become a party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The Government hopes, however, that Iraq will accede to the statute and expects that the European Union in its contacts with Iraqi authorities in the future will promote knowledge and understanding of the ICC in Iraq and encourage Iraqi accession in due course. The Government would also welcome states, such as Iraq, which are not yet party to the statute agreeing to co-operate with the court, as provided for by the statute.
In relation to those accused of abuses in Iraq, as has been mentioned previously to this House, the role of the International Criminal Court in these cases is limited by the fact that it has jurisdiction only over crimes committed on the territory of a state party, or by a person who is a national of a state party. As I have said, Iraq is not a state party to the Rome Statute and many of those accused of abuses are not nationals of a state party.
An additional point to note is that, even where abuses have been committed by a national of a state party to the Rome statute, the International Criminal Court, in accordance with the principle of complementarity set out in the statute, may take action only where a state with jurisdiction is unable or unwilling genuinely to investigate and prosecute the alleged crimes
Overseas Development Aid.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:78 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the outcome of the World Food Programme global meeting held in Dublin earlier in June 2004; the way in which the extra €1.5 million pledged by the Government for the WFP will be spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18831/04]
The World Food Programme, WFP, is a key partner for Ireland in the fight against global hunger. In 2003 alone, the WFP met the needs of over 100 million people in 81 countries. Food deliveries to hungry families by the agency increased by 57% compared to 2002.
The WFP global meeting, the first to be organised for five years, took place in Dublin from 7 to 10 June. The choice of Ireland for the meeting is a reflection of Ireland's growing role and reputation in humanitarian action and development co-operation. The global meeting brought together all the WFP's country directors from across the world, senior management and a number of experts in the field of food security and related areas. An important objective of the global meeting was to provide a forum for discussion and an examination of best practice in relation to meeting the needs of the world's hungry. The delegates were addressed by, inter alia, the WFP’s executive director, Mr. James Morris, the administrator of USAID, Mr. Andrew Natsios and the UN’s Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Jan Egeland. The private sector and NGOs also had the opportunity to participate in the discussions.
The global meeting has given the WFP a renewed sense of mission focusing on the target of reaching the millennium development goal, MDG, of halving world hunger by 2015. The WFP is uniquely placed to give impetus to actions in relation to this goal. When I spoke to the delegates, I assured them that Ireland will continue to work with the WFP as a key partner, in our shared goal of saving lives and rebuilding livelihoods.
During the course of the global meeting, I announced additional funding of €1.5 million for the WFP. Of this new funding, €500,000 will be utilised to meet the food needs of those made so vulnerable by the conflict in Darfur, Sudan. The remaining €1 million is currently being allocated by the WFP to other pressing humanitarian emergencies. This new funding brings Ireland's commitment to the WFP this year to approximately €9 million — including assistance provided by the Department of Agriculture and Food.
EU Accession.
Gerard Murphy
Question:79 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the ongoing efforts being made by Romania and Bulgaria to meet European Union accession criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18770/04]
Compliance with the political criteria is a prerequisite for the opening of negotiations with candidate countries for accession to the EU. The EU considers that both Romania and Bulgaria continue to fulfil the political criteria. With regard to the economic criteria, Bulgaria is regarded as having a functioning market economy while Romania can be considered a functioning market economy once the good progress made has continued decisively.
The European Council, at its meeting in Brussels on 18 June, noted with great satisfaction that Bulgaria had provisionally closed all the negotiation chapters and that Romania was substantially closer to achieving the same objective by the end of 2004. It reiterated the European Union's aim to welcome the two countries as members of the Union in January 2007, if they are ready.
Question No. 80 answered with QuestionNo. 51.
Overseas Development Aid.
John Gormley
Question:81 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the OECD’s Development Assistance Committee policy paper entitled A Development Co-operation Lens on Terrorism Prevention: Key Entry Points for Action and in particular to address the concerns of Comhlámh and other development NGOs that development assistance is in danger of being militarised towards a war on terror instead of a war on poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18852/04]
The OECD Development Assistance Committee, DAC, reference document, A Development Cooperation Lens on Terrorism Prevention: Key Entry Points for Action, was endorsed by the DAC high level meeting in 2003 and complements the DAC Guidelines Helping Prevent Violent Conflict in 2001, a reference point for development co-operation actors in this field.
The DAC reference document draws on donor responses to international terrorism. It is intended to guide the international community and Governments in their efforts to address linkages between terrorism and development, and suggests how donor programmes might be designed or adjusted. It begins with a policy statement in which DAC Ministers and heads of agencies underline key lessons, orientations and entry points for action. While the causes of international terrorism are complex, there are connections with development arenas, actors and issues. Consequently the international community, aid organisations, Governments, the European Union, the United Nations system and the OECD have embarked on a series of reflections on how best to support global efforts to combat terrorism.
The annual high level meeting of the OECD Development Assistance Committee, DAC, on 15-16 April 2004 debated the relationship between security and development. While participants accepted that the DAC's ODA criteria should include, for example, activities designed to promote peace and stability through the creation of more accountable security forces or the reinforcement of a human rights' culture in developing countries, there was a general agreement that the traditional definition of ODA should be carefully protected in this debate and that the current criteria should not be broadened, apart from three minor clarifications of existing provisions.
The Government's development co-operation programme has a very strong focus on poverty reduction in the poorest developing countries. This will remain our approach.
Nuclear Disarmament Initiative.
Brendan Howlin
Question:82 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will urge the US President to stop developing new nuclear weapons such as the so-called bunker buster, and to sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18834/04]
Ireland considers the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons as the cornerstone of the international non-proliferation regime and the essential foundation for the pursuit of nuclear disarmament under Article VI of the treaty. This view is shared by our partners in the European Union. In our statement to the Third Preparatory Committee to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, or NPT, which took place in New York from 26 April to 7 May 2004, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to the preservation of the treaty in all its aspects. This commitment is consistent with the provisions of the EU Strategy Against the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, adopted by Heads of State and Government in December 2003.
Article VI of the NPT, inter alia, commits all states parties to the treaty, including the five nuclear weapons states, to pursue in good faith effective measures relating to nuclear disarmament. Ireland expects all states parties to the NPT to respect its terms and make every effort to achieve its full implementation. Ireland, as part of the New Agenda Coalition, has indicated that it would be deeply concerned about any future role for nuclear weapons as part of any new security strategy.
The question of testing is inextricably linked to the development of any new forms of nuclear weapons. One of the steps agreed in the final document of the last review conference of the NPT in 2000 is a commitment to the early entry into force of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. This treaty, which contains an outright prohibition on nuclear tests, will enter into force when 44 named states which are deemed to be nuclear capable — whether civilian or military — have signed and ratified.
All member states of the European Union are states parties to the CTBT and support its early entry into force. Furthermore, in line with its legally-binding common position on the universalisation and strengthening of multilateral disarmament and non-proliferation treaties, adopted in November 2003, the EU is actively involved in promoting universal adherence to the CTBT. The US has signed but not yet ratified the CTBT. In accordance with the EU common position, the question of ratification of the treaty has been raised regularly, including in various multilateral fora.
At the Third Preparatory Committee for the 2005 Review Conference of the NPT, in April this year, the EU reiterated the importance that it attaches to the entry into force of the CTBT at the earliest possible date. We continue to call upon all states that have not yet signed and ratified the treaty to do so without delay and without conditions, in particular those states whose ratification is required for entry into force. Pending the entry into force of the CTBT, the EU urges all states to abide by a moratorium and to refrain from any actions, which are contrary to the obligations and provisions of the CTBT.
Non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is a shared priority for the EU and the US and will feature on the agenda at the upcoming EU-US Summit. In accordance with EU policy, including that set out on the EU WMD strategy, issues concerning the strengthening and universalisation of the disarmament and non-proliferation treaties and regimes, including the NPT, will be covered in these discussions. I look forward to a productive outcome at the summit which will help identify joint actions for co-operation in this area.
Foreign Conflicts.
Phil Hogan
Question:83 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the security situation in Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18765/04]
The Government remains very concerned about the security situation in Iraq. Terrorists continue to be active and are carrying out suicide bombings and attacks on civilians as well as on military targets. High-level Iraqi officials and oil pipelines have also been targeted. We are pleased that fighting has died down in Najaf and Fallujah. It is very regrettable that there were civilian casualties when, on 19 June, coalition forces fired on a house in Fallujah which they, and Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi, believed was being used as a safe house by Al-Qaeda militants. The Government have urged the coalition forces to make every conceivable effort to avoid civilian casualties.
The capture and killing of hostages continues. We utterly condemn the recent brutal and savage execution of South Korean civilian Kim Sun-Il. I reiterate our call for the immediate and safe release of all hostages in Iraq and for an end to the practice of kidnapping.
At the recent European Council, Ireland and our EU partners regretted that the campaign of terrorist violence in Iraq is prolonging the suffering of the Iraqi people by posing difficulties for political progress and economic reconstruction in Iraq. The Council welcomed the commitment under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1546 of all parties to act in accordance with international law, including obligations under international humanitarian law, and called on them to ensure observance of these obligations. Our objective is to see a secure, stable, unified, prosperous and democratic Iraq that will make a positive contribution to the stability of the region and work constructively with its neighbours and with the international community to meet shared challenges.
Middle East Peace Process.
Gay Mitchell
Question:84 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the actions which have been undertaken by the Government to make clear, in particular to the Israeli authorities, its concern at the failure to progress the peace accord agreed by the quartet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18776/04]
During our presidency of the European Union, Ireland has consistently worked to advance the aims set out in the roadmap of the Quartet based on a comprehensive settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict through a two-state solution. Implementation of the roadmap has been slow as neither Israel nor the Palestinians have met their obligations under the roadmap. When I met the Israeli and Palestinian Foreign Ministers earlier this year, I suggested that, if the requirements set out in the first phase of the roadmap were too great, they might consider taking small, concrete, visible steps to build confidence and prepare for larger scale measures.
The roadmap remains the best available way to achieve a just and comprehensive settlement as it contains all the elements which must form part of any eventual solution. The central position of the roadmap in the peace process has been reaffirmed in the statement of European Foreign Ministers at Tullamore in April and in the declaration issued after the meeting of the Quartet in New York on 4 May and again by the European Council last week.
My most recent meeting with the Foreign Minister of Israel was in the margins of the Euro-Mediterranean Foreign Ministers' meeting in Dublin on 5 and 6 May. I used the opportunity of our bilateral discussions to emphasise the central importance of the roadmap and the need for both parties to meet their obligations under it. On the same occasion I met the Palestinian Foreign Minister and made the same points to him. On 14 June I met the Foreign Minister of Egypt in Brussels to discuss the Middle East peace process among other matters. We agreed that the roadmap remains central to the process and that unilateral acts, such as withdrawal from Gaza, must take place in the context of the roadmap.
Foreign Conflicts.
Liz McManus
Question:85 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will indicate his feelings on the implications of the findings of the 9-11 Commission which suggest that there was no credible connection between the attack on the Twin Towers on 11 September 2001 and the previous Iraqi Administration, in view of the fact that it is the case that the Taoiseach relied on this alleged connection in order to justify the use of Shannon airport by the US military. [18842/04]
The Government has never taken the position that there was a connection between the attacks on the Twin Towers and the previous Iraqi administration. The Government, therefore, did not rely on this alleged connection in order to justify the use of Shannon airport by the US military.
The provision of facilities at Shannon airport to the US military is a long-standing policy which has been in place for several decades. Within the span of the period, several conflicts have occurred in which the US was involved.
The findings of the 9-11 Commission are a matter for the US Government.
Nuclear Capacity.
Phil Hogan
Question:86 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report to Dáil Éireann on the situation in Iran, with particular reference to the development of weaponry with a nuclear capability by that country and the exchange of nuclear intelligence with other states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18796/04]
It has been almost two years since Iran's undeclared nuclear programme was first brought to the attention of the International Atomic Energy Agency and the director general of the agency has presented five reports on the matter since June 2003. The most recent consideration of the issue took place in Vienna from 14-18 June at the latest meeting of the IAEA board of governors.
The board considered the latest report on Iran produced by the agency's director general, Dr. Mohamed El Baradei, and adopted by consensus a resolution on Iran. This resolution, the fourth that the board has adopted on this issue, contains both positive and negative elements and takes up a number of issues identified by the director general both in his report and in his introductory statement to the board of governors.
On the positive side the agency has been making steady progress in understanding the nature and extent of Iran's nuclear programme and in resolving many aspects of Iran's uranium conversion and laser enrichment activities. Iran has continued to implement the terms of its additional protocol and has provided an initial declaration pursuant to its obligations under the protocol. This declaration should provide broader information about Iran's nuclear and nuclear-related activities and will facilitate the IAEA's assessment of the correctness and completeness of the information already provided by Iran on its past and present nuclear activities. In addition Iran has decided, on a voluntary basis, to suspend all enrichment-related and reprocessing activities.
However, the resolution also deplores the fact that Iran's co-operation has not been as full, timely and proactive as it should have been and calls upon Iran to take all necessary steps on an urgent basis to help resolve outstanding questions. The resolution expresses the board's regret that Iran's commitment with respect to the suspension of enrichment-related and reprocessing activities has not been comprehensively implemented and calls on Iran to correct all remaining shortcomings.
During the IAEA's ongoing verification activities in Iran, questions arose in relation to the source of equipment important for use in Iran's programme. The agency signalled its intention to undertake follow-up activities — including with other relevant parties — in regard to information received about the origins of such material. In his latest report, the director general reiterates the need for co-operation from all relevant parties and notes that some information has been received from another state in this connection. The resolution adopted recently by the board recalls that full and prompt co-operation with the agency on the part of all third countries is essential in the clarification of certain outstanding questions.
On 18 June, Ireland, on behalf of the European Union, delivered a statement to the board of governors which supported the director general's call for co-operation from third countries. The statement also welcomed the adoption of the resolution and reiterated our call on Iran for full proactive and transparent co-operation over the coming months so that a complete and final picture can be presented as soon as possible to the board of governors for its consideration.
The European Council on 17-18 June stressed the Union's desire to move towards a closer relationship with Iran, on the basis of action by Iran to address the EU's concerns regarding Iran's nuclear programme, the fight against terrorism, human rights, and Iran's approach to the Middle East Peace Process. The European Council noted the ongoing work of the IAEA in Iran and urged full co-operation with the agency in a spirit of full transparency in relation to its nuclear programme, with a view to solving all outstanding questions.
Work Permits.
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:87 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a work permit will be issued to a company in respect of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18950/04]
I am informed that an application for the renewal of a work permit, for the above named individual, was received on the 2 March 2004. This application was subsequently refused and the work permit section wrote to the employer on 8 May 2004 informing them of the reasons for the refusal and giving them a right of appeal. To date no such appeal has been received by the work permit section.
World Trade Negotiations.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:88 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the current state of progress in the WTO; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18966/04]
The operation of the European Unions common trade policy lies within the competence of the European Commission. In recent months the Commission has been to the forefront of efforts to re-launch the Doha Development Agenda negotiations, which were stalled following the failure of the World Trade Organisation Ministerial meeting in Cancun in September last year.
The most recent major initiative taken by the Commission was the issue on 9 May of a joint letter from Trade Commissioner Pascal Lamy and Agriculture Commissioner Franz Fischler to all the other members of the World Trade Organisation. The letter sets out the key areas where the EU felt that movement was needed if the negotiations were to progress and also what the EU was prepared to propose in these particular areas.
The areas which were focused on in the letter included agriculture, non-agricultural market access, Singapore issues and development. Most particularly, in relation to agriculture, the EU indicated that it was prepared to negotiate on the elimination of EU export subsidies provided other WTO members reciprocated in relation to other forms of export competition — such as export credits, state trading entities and food aid — and provided that an overall balance could be achieved between and within the pillars on agriculture, including market access, domestic support and export subsidies.
In relation to the so-called Singapore issues — investment, competition, trade facilitation and Government procurement — the EU indicated that trade facilitation is the principal area in which it would wish to see negotiations launched at an early stage; it is prepared to leave the other areas for further consideration within the WTO.
A very significant element of the EU initiative related to the development aspect of the negotiations. The EU is now proposing that in so far as agriculture and non agricultural market access is concerned, the least developed countries and other weak or vulnerable developing countries in a similar situation should not have to open their markets beyond their existing commitments and should be able to benefit from increased market access offered by both developed and advanced developing countries.
There has been a mixed reaction to the EU initiative and intensive discussions are ongoing in Geneva in an attempt to agree a basis for the re-launch of negotiations. The hope is that an agreed framework can be put in place by the end of July.
The Irish Presidency of the EU has been actively involved in facilitating EU member state participation in the development of EU policy in this area. The Minister and officials of the Department are closely involved with the Commission in the efforts to put the negotiations back on track.
Special Olympics.
Willie Penrose
Question:89 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the excellent work carried out by the FCA and Civil Defence during the course of the Special Olympics, if some small memento such as a special medal being struck to acknowledge their voluntary participation during same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18928/04]
Service in the Second Line Reserve is rendered on a voluntary part-time basis. I am very conscious of the time and effort which members of the FCA and Slua Muirí freely give by participating in training and other activities in their own time. Their willingness to serve in a voluntary capacity, and the dedication and enthusiasm that they consistently display, is appreciated in their local communities throughout the country. It is also deeply appreciated by the Government.
This contribution was of course particularly in evidence last year when the Reserve Defence Force played a hugely important support role to the Special Olympics. A total of 9,359 man days were expended in a variety of areas including driver, administration, communications, medical and ceremonial activities. The involvement of the reserve in the Special Olympics exemplified the versatility and capability of the members of the organisation in the execution of a multiplicity of diverse tasks. Their involvement was a major factor contributing to the Special Olympics being such an outstanding international success.
Specific Defence Force regulations apply to the organisation and administration of the Reserve Defence Force. Members of the Second Line Reserve and the Permanent Defence Force are treated similarly in that completion of a specified period of satisfactory service is recognised by the award of service medals and bars.
Members of the Second Line Reserve, which consists of An Forsa Cosanta Áitiuil and An Slua Muirí, are awarded An Bonn Seirbhise — the Service Medal — on completing seven years satisfactory service. A bar is added to the medal on completing 12 years' satisfactory service and a second bar on completing 21 years' satisfactory service. There are currently no plans to change the relevant regulation to provide for other additional categories of medal.
Defence Force regulations do not provide for the issue of medals to Civil Defence personnel who are not members of the Defence Forces.
Grant Payments.
Olwyn Enright
Question:90 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a slaughter premium which is due since February 2003 has not yet been paid to a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18926/04]
Under the 2003 EU slaughter premium scheme 53 animals were deemed eligible to the person named and were paid in full.
A further nine animals, imported from France, were subsequently slaughtered under the herd number of the person named. Payment in respect of these animals will issue within the coming week.
Grazing Rights.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:91 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if permission will be given to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 14 to exercise horses in Massey’s Woods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18927/04]
The land in question is the property of Coillte Teoranta. The Forestry Act 1988 established Coillte Teoranta as a private company. Operational issues such as access for horse-riding are a matter for the company.
Grant Payments.
Michael Ring
Question:92 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not been paid forest premium. [18954/04]
An adjustment is necessary to the amount of premium due in 2004 to the person in question, arising from a reduction in the area originally afforested. The appropriate payment will be made within the next four weeks.
Compensation Payments.
Seymour Crawford
Question:93 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when compensation for tuberculosis reactors will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; the reason the money is not being paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18983/04]
TB reactor compensation was not paid in this case because of apparent irregularities identified with regard to the testing outcomes for nine of the animals tested in the herdowner's herd in 1996.
Tax Code.
Pat Breen
Question:94 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance if, further to Question No. 125 of 25 May 2004, the application for a waiver has been processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18902/04]
The application for waiver in the case referred to by the Deputy has been processed by my Department and a response issued to the applicants' solicitor on 16 June 2004.
EU Funding.
Brendan Smith
Question:95 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Finance the progress to date in securing European Union funding towards to continuation of the PEACE II programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18984/04]
The PEACE II programme is very important to Northern Ireland and the Border region. It promotes reconciliation by bringing these communities together and delivering projects that benefit those who have been most affected by the conflict.
The Taoiseach and Prime Minister Blair wrote to President Prodi last month to ask the Commission to consider extending the programme until 2006. This would bring it in line with the lifespan of other Structural Fund programmes. On 17 June last, the European Council recognised the valuable role of the PEACE II programme.
The support of all 25 member states for this work and for the possibility of an extension to the PEACE II programme is very encouraging. My officials will work closely with the Department of Finance and personnel in the North, the European Commission and the special EU programmes body in the coming months to make sure that this possibility becomes a reality.
I should point out that what is under discussion at this stage is an extension of the current programme for two further years to the end of 2006 rather than a new programme — a PEACE III — which relates to the 2007-13 financial perspective.
EU Constitutional Treaty.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:96 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of the Seville declaration after the conclusion of the EU constitutional treaty; and if the Seville declaration is among the previous protocols and treaties that are considered to be replaced following the conclusion of the EU constitutional treaty. [18912/04]
The constitutional treaty now agreed must be ratified by all member states before it can enter into force. When it does so, it will supersede all previous EU treaties.
However, Article IV-3 of the constitutional treaty provides that declarations made with regard to previous treaties shall be preserved unless deleted or amended. The Seville declarations will, therefore, remain fully in place.
The Government will continue to ensure that the commitments made in the declarations, as reflected in Article 29.4.9 of the Constitution, are fully maintained.
Question No. 97 answered with QuestionNo. 10.
Overseas Development Aid.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:98 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to address the issue of war and starvation in Africa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18958/04]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:104 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which humanitarian aid has been directed to the most sensitive or pressing areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18964/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 104 together.
I am deeply conscious of the enormity of the challenges facing African nations as they strive to build the foundations of economic and social development, often in a climate of hunger and warfare. The reduction of poverty, hunger and conflict in Africa is, I believe, one of the most important tasks to which the international community can dedicate itself in the 21st century.
Conflict has many causes and many manifestations. However, it is nurtured, fed and strengthened by poverty, inequality and exclusion. The majority of wars occur in the poorest countries and they mostly affect the poorest people, particularly women and children. Conflict presents complex challenges for us all but our efforts must be clearly focused on the underlying causes. Ireland's development co-operation programme seeks to address the root causes of conflict by ensuring that conflict sensitivity is reflected in all instruments of development support and partnership. Furthermore, our engagement with and support for civil society is a key element of our programme.
The Government responds in two ways to the humanitarian and development needs of Africa. In the short term we focus on saving lives in the most effective way possible, through direct assistance via the UN system and international agencies as well as non-governmental organisations, NGOs. In the longer term, Ireland's development programme tackles the structural reasons underlying endemic poverty.
Ireland's emergency humanitarian aid programme supports the short-term interventions designed to save lives and rebuild livelihoods in the immediate aftermath of natural and man-made disasters. This humanitarian assistance is founded on the principles of a commitment to international humanitarian law, a commitment to needs-based programming and regular evaluations of humanitarian operations. Such an approach ensures that Ireland's humanitarian assistance is directed to where needs are greatest. To date this year, we have engaged deeply in a number of conflict-affected zones, including Liberia, Afghanistan, Sudan and Sierra Leone.
Ireland's humanitarian programme is implemented through valued partners, such as NGOs, UN agencies and international organisations. These partners have the experience and capacity to deliver assistance to the most vulnerable in times of crisis and stress. While relief operations for major emergencies are supported, particular attention is also given to targeting humanitarian assistance at the so-called "forgotten or silent emergencies", especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Last year, the Government's humanitarian assistance to African countries amounted to more than €20 million.
If we are to break the cyclical nature of food insecurity, disease and conflict in Africa, the underlying structural problems affecting poverty and stability must also be addressed through longer-term development assistance. Ireland has strong development partnerships with six countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Through these partnerships Ireland fully engages with the governments, donors, EU and UN agencies on the basis of poverty reduction strategy plans, PRSPs. The PRSPs outline how each country prioritises resources and policies with the objective of reducing poverty. These programmes contain a strong governance element throughout to assist in the building of democratic structures, the rule of law and a culture of respect for human rights.
This comprehensive and African-owned approach by donors, governments and civil societies stands the best chance of reversing the downward spiral of economic and social indicators in sub-Saharan Africa, reducing conflict and facilitating real and positive change in the lives of millions of Africans.
Foreign Conflicts.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:99 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the measures he has taken during Ireland’s EU Presidency to combat war and human rights abuses at various flash points in Africa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18959/04]
Conflict prevention is an overarching theme that Ireland prioritised in our relations with Africa during our EU Presidency. As Presidency, Ireland led EU efforts in contributing to the various regional and country-level peace processes under way.
In January 2004, the External Relations Council adopted a revised EU common position on conflict prevention, management and resolution in Africa. The adoption of this common position underlines the importance which the European Union attaches to its relationship with Africa. The main features of the common position are support for and enhancement of Africa's peacekeeping capacity, regular assessment of potential violent conflicts in Africa and presenting policy options for early action.
The African peace facility was established under the Irish Presidency and has now become operational. It will be financed through an initial contribution of €250 million from the European development fund, EDF. The facility will provide non-military assistance to African peace support operations and will aim to improve institutional capacities of the African Union and relevant sub-regional organisations in the areas of peacekeeping and conflict resolution.
In March 2004, the Council of Ministers renewed the EU's common position concerning human rights, democratic principles, the rule of law and good governance in Africa. This common position sets out an important framework within which we apply human rights principles.
A west Africa strategy paper was finalised in May 2004. A regional strategy is required in order to address the cross-border problems prevailing in all west African crises such as child soldiers, use of mercenaries, small arms, refugees and illegal exploitation of natural resources as well as to address human trafficking and immigration issues.
A degree of success was secured by the Presidency in respect of human rights in Africa, at the recent 60th session of the UN Commission on Human Rights. Achievements include the establishment of a special UN mechanism on the Sudan, and the agreement with the African Union on a resolution concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC. In addition, the Presidency and our partners secured the adoption of the Italian technical resolution regarding assistance on human rights in Somalia and supported similar resolutions by the African Union on Chad, Sierra Leone and Burundi.
The EU thematic resolution opposing the death penalty was adopted with a record margin and a record number of co-sponsors. The resolution on the rights of the child which we co-tabled with the Latin American-Caribbean grouping and the resolution on religious intolerance were also adopted. All these resolutions are universal in their application and are of direct relevance in a number of areas on the African continent.
Also at the UN Commission, the Irish Presidency delivered a strong statement, on behalf of the EU, reaffirming its steadfast commitment to work for the elimination of all contemporary forms of slavery, which scourge still exists in some parts of Africa. Regrettably, the EU's resolution on Zimbabwe was not adopted.
Many African countries continue to experience or are gradually emerging from conflict. With regard to Sudan for example, the EU has been to the forefront of the international community in promoting urgent action to address the appalling humanitarian and human rights situation in Darfur. At the External Relations Council meetings in April, May and June, concern was expressed at the humanitarian and human rights violations in Darfur and the Council called on the Government of Sudan to provide unhindered and safe humanitarian access to the region. The EU has consistently conveyed the message to the Sudanese Government that the EU condemns all human rights violations and particularly the actions of the Janjaweed militias.
I led a ministerial Troika to Eritrea and Ethiopia in April. During this visit, I encouraged both sides to engage in dialogue with the United Nations special envoy and implement the decision of the boundary commission.
Under the Irish Presidency, the European Union has remained actively engaged in supporting the peace process in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in urging accelerated implementation of the transition agenda. The European Union took the lead internationally in condemning the capture of Bukavu by rebel forces on 2 June 2004 and in promoting a peaceful resolution of the crisis in eastern DRC.
The EU has also been active under our Presidency in condemning the serious violations of human rights perpetrated by the Lord's Resistance Army against the civilian population of Northern Uganda. The Irish Presidency has been in regular contact with the Ugandan Government in Kampala at the highest level to convey the EU's concerns and urge a peaceful resolution of the conflict in northern Uganda.
In response to a different question today, I have set out the range of activity in which the Irish Presidency has engaged in seeking to advance the peace process in Burundi.
EU Presidency.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:100 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he has influenced matters in the Balkans during Ireland’s EU Presidency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18960/04]
The EU has taken the lead role in working with the countries of the Western Balkans to consolidate peace and stability in the region. At the start of Ireland's Presidency, the Government undertook to maintain the priority which the EU attaches to the Western Balkans and the momentum in bringing the region closer to the European Union. The situation in the region was considered by the European Council and at each of the monthly meetings of the General Affairs and External Relations Council which I chaired during Ireland's Presidency. I remained in close contact with the countries of the region, with other member states, High Representative Javier Solana, Commissioner Patten and representatives of the wider international community to ensure that the EU made an effective contribution over the past six months to peace in the region and reform based on European standards.
The EU-Western Balkans Summit, held in Thessaloniki in June last year, agreed a shared agenda for progress towards the objective of the eventual integration of the countries of the region into EU structures. Progress will be based on the fulfilment of agreed, objective political and economic criteria. In its capacity as Presidency, Ireland worked to strengthen this policy framework, which provides for individual progress by the countries of the region, in the context of closer regional co-operation. On 18 June, the European Council, meeting in Brussels, decided on the basis of the Commission opinion that Croatia is a candidate country for membership of the EU, and that accession negotiations will begin in early 2005. On 22 March, the Taoiseach, in his capacity as President of the European Council, accepted the application for membership of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia at a ceremony in Dublin. In May, the General Affairs and External Relations Council requested the Commission to prepare its opinion on the application, for consideration by the Council. I believe that these important policy decisions underline the seriousness of the EU's approach to the countries of the region and that they should be an encouragement to persevere with the reform process and with the implementation of European standards.
In introducing the Irish Presidency last January, I stated that we would work for the implementation of all commitments made by the EU under the Thessaloniki agenda. This has been achieved through a series of important Council decisions, most notably the decision this month to adopt European partnerships for each of the countries of the region. The partnerships draw on the experience of the current enlargement process and set out the specific areas in which each of the countries needs to make progress to enable further movement in the integration process. We have also implemented the commitment to enhance political dialogue with the countries of the Western Balkans. Last week in Luxembourg, for instance, I chaired the first ever meeting of an EU ministerial Troika with Serbia and Montenegro. I also chaired Troika meetings during the Presidency with the Foreign Ministers of Croatia and of Albania.
The European Council last week adopted a comprehensive policy towards Bosnia and Herzegovina, which sets out practical arrangements for strengthening the coherence and effectiveness of the EU's involvement in Bosnia. Throughout the Presidency, Ireland has facilitated important practical steps for the possible transition from the UN-mandated, NATO-led SFOR peacekeeping force in Bosnia to an EU-led force. I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Irish citizens working with the EU and international organisations throughout the Western Balkans, and would note in the Bosnian context the important contribution being made by assistant Garda commissioner, Kevin Carty, who was appointed head of the EU police mission in Bosnia by the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 23 February.
The Council paid close attention to the situation in Kosovo throughout the Presidency, especially in the aftermath of the outbreak of ethnic violence in Kosovo in March, which was discussed in detail at the informal meeting of Foreign Ministers in Tullamore on 16 April. The EU has reaffirmed its strong support for the UN mission in Kosovo and for the special representative of the UN Secretary General in their efforts to implement Security Council Resolution 1244. The Council has stressed its firm commitment to the policy of Standards before Status and to the standards implementation process. It has made it clear that in this difficult period Kosovo's political leaders must demonstrate unambiguously their commitment to a multi-ethnic Kosovo and to the protection of the security and rights of minority communities. It is important that all parties co-operate in order to achieve practical results from the standards process in the coming months. At our meeting last week, I encouraged the Foreign Minister of Serbia and Montenegro, Mr. Vuk Draskovic, to use the influence of the Belgrade authorities to encourage the representatives of the Kosovo Serb population to re-engage with the UN in dialogue on reconstruction, security and the restructuring of local government, in the interests of all the people of Kosovo. The European Council last week welcomed the announcement by the UN Secretary General that he intends to appoint the current EU special representative in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Mr. Soren Jessen-Petersen, as his special representative in Kosovo, to replace Harri Holkeri, who has resigned for health reasons. The EU will co-operate closely with the new special representative. We have also begun consideration of ways in which the EU can strengthen its role in Kosovo in support of the standards process, and I hope that decisions will be taken by the Council in the coming months.
Progress in the development of relations with the EU has been slowest in Serbia and Montenegro and in Albania, in each case as a result of continuing political instability. In its capacity as Presidency, Ireland has ensured that the EU's political message has been conveyed clearly with the emphasis on the credibility of the European perspective offered to the people of the Western Balkans. I hope that it will prove possible to conclude a stabilisation and association agreement with Albania during 2005, based on the implementation of the necessary reforms. I also hope that following the contentious Presidential elections in Serbia on 27 June, the authorities of the state union of Serbia and Montenegro will seize the opportunity to re-engage in the reform process. The EU wants to negotiate with an effectively functioning state union, with a view to early progress in bringing Serbia and Montenegro closer to the Union, based on the commitments entered into at Thessaloniki last year.
Question No. 101 answered with QuestionNo. 53.
Foreign Conflicts.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:102 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the ongoing situation in Nigeria; if stability has been achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18962/04]
The Irish Presidency issued a declaration on behalf of the European Union on 13 May 2004, expressing its dismay at the outbreak of violence in the town of Yelwa in Plateau State and at the violence that also erupted in the town of Kano. In the declaration, the EU noted the rapid response of the Nigerian Government in despatching additional security forces to the areas concerned and in imposing a curfew in order to stop this dramatic cycle of violence. The EU urged restraint and the need to avoid any acts of retaliation or provocation which would only result in renewed bloodshed and loss of life. The Nigerian Government was also called upon to ensure that any intervention be carried out with full respect for human rights and the rule of law. On 28 May 2004, the Presidency issued a further EU declaration in view of the recent serious disturbances in Plateau State and the suspension of the Governor and the State Assembly by President Obasanjo.
On 18 May 2004, the Irish Presidency launched the first EU-Nigeria political dialogue at ministerial level. My colleague, Minister of State, Deputy Kitt, represented the Presidency and led an EU Troika. At the meeting, the Minister of State, Deputy Kitt, and the Nigerian Foreign Minister, Mr Olu Adeniji condemned the recent outbreak of violence in Plateau and Kano States, and noted that the Nigerian Government had taken measures to maintain the peace and prevent the further escalation of violence. The Troika meeting also addressed a range of other issues, including peace and security, governance and development matters.
Overseas Development Aid.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:103 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps taken to ensure funding provided through the overseas development aid programme goes directly to those for whom it was intended and is not intercepted by corrupt organisations or administrations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18963/04]
Issues at the heart of effective delivery of assistance to poor people in least-developed countries include clear objectives, a well-articulated strategy for delivery and good oversight and accountability.
As the Deputy will be aware, the central objectives of the Irish programme of development co-operation continue to be the reduction of poverty and the promotion of sustainable development. Meeting the basic human needs of some of the poorest people in the world and improving their access to food, water, health services, sanitation, education and employment are key goals of the bilateral development programme, of our interaction with multilateral institutions and of our engagement with and through NGOs.
It is of critical importance, when operating in an environment of dire poverty and the corruption frequently associated with it, to have robust processes for oversight and accountability in relation to the funding provided. The Development Co-operation Ireland programme provides this through a rigorous system of evaluation, monitoring and audit. All accounts and expenditure are audited and there is a strong, comprehensive monitoring process, which acts as a quality control on the programme. The evaluation approach allows for a forensic examination of interventions to measure effectiveness and identify lessons learned.
I am satisfied that the auditing, evaluation and monitoring systems which we have in place ensure that the funding provided under our programme goes only to those for whom it is intended.
Question No. 104 answered with QuestionNo. 98.
Human Rights Abuses.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:105 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action he took through the UN or EU in relation to the mistreatment of prisoners in Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18965/04]
The Government has reiterated its abhorrence at the mistreatment of prisoners in Iraqi prisons time and again. Ireland also made known its concerns directly to the authorities in London and Washington when the allegations of abuse first came to light.
The European Union has, in very clear language, strongly and publicly condemned any instances of abuse and degradation of prisoners in Iraq as contrary to international law, including the Geneva Conventions. The 25 member states of the Union did so together with our eight Arab partners at the Euro-Mediterranean meeting of Foreign Ministers held in Dublin on 5 and 6 May. This was the result of an Irish Presidency proposal. At the same time, we acknowledged the commitment of both Governments to bring to justice those responsible for such abuses and also their commitment to rectify any failure to adhere to international humanitarian law.
The EU Council of Ministers, acting upon the initiative of the Irish Presidency, repeated this condemnation in conclusions following its meeting on 17 May and again following the meeting with the Gulf Arab states on the same day. The Council also referred to the report of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation in Iraq which was presented on 4 June and called for action to be taken on the recommendations contained in this report.
EU Constitution.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:106 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if and when a referendum will be held to ratify the EU constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18967/04]
It is envisaged that ratification of the constitutional treaty by member states will take place within two years of signature, which is likely to take place later this year. A decision on when to hold a referendum in Ireland to ratify the treaty will be taken by the Government at the appropriate time.
Question No. 107 answered with QuestionNo. 22.
Foreign Conflicts.
Finian McGrath
Question:108 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will urgently intervene at the UN level in the deteriorating situation in Iraq; and if he will call upon the UN Security Council to be more directly involved in solving the extremely volatile situation in Iraq. [18982/04]
Resolution 1546 on Iraq was adopted by the United Nations Security Council on 8 June 2004. The resolution endorses the formation of a sovereign interim government which will assume full responsibility and authority by 30 June for governing Iraq. It welcomes the ending of the occupation by that date and the reassertion by Iraq of its full sovereignty. It reaffirms the right of the Iraqi people to determine their political future and to control their financial and natural resources. It goes on to endorse the proposed timetable for Iraq's political transition to democratic government. The resolution also spells out the role of the United Nations and reaffirms the authorisation for a multinational force, which is the subject of an exchange of letters.
Ireland, both nationally and as Presidency of the European Union, welcomed the adoption of this resolution. The unanimous adoption of the resolution conveys the support of the international community for the transfer of sovereignty to an interim Iraqi Government. I believe that this broad international support will help to stabilise the situation in Iraq. In particular, I hope that it will mark a new and successful stage, with the UN playing a key role in the process of political and economic reconstruction in Iraq.
The interim Iraqi Government was appointed on 1 June 2004. The Iraqi Governing Council has now disbanded and full sovereignty is due to be transferred to this new interim government on 30 June. I welcome the formation of a new interim Iraqi Government. I wish the new government every success in governing Iraq to the stage at which free and fair elections can take place.
School Staffing.
Paul Connaughton
Question:109 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that two teachers who have been employed by a school (detail supplied) in County Galway for the past three years are not being made permanent; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that this school is not being allocated its full quota of resource teaching hours and that some students who had been in receipt of resource teaching hours in national school have not been allocated such a benefit when they attended same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18894/04]
My Department approves an annual teacher allocation for each VEC based on the number of schools and the enrolment in the schools on 30 September of the previous year. Teacher allocations are made to the individual VEC scheme rather than individual school and it is a matter for the chief executive officer to arrange for appointment of teachers to individual schools within the VEC.
My Department also allocates resource teacher posts and special needs assistant posts to second level schools and vocational education committees to cater for pupils with special educational needs. Applications for such support are made to my Department by the relevant school authority. Each application is considered on the basis of the assessed needs of the pupil or pupils involved and the nature and level of the support provided is determined after detailed consideration of the supporting documentation provided, including the recommendations made by NEPS, and having regard to the overall level of resourcing available to the school to address special needs issues.
My Department has approved an allocation of 25 additional teaching hours and 22 hours special needs assistant support for the school in question to cater for the special educational needs of pupils in the school.
Higher Education Grants.
Joan Burton
Question:110 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the details of the number of students attending each third level institution in the State who are in receipt of third level grant awards from 1997 to date; and if he can classify such students by institution, or university, county or local authority and parental occupation. [18895/04]
Joan Burton
Question:111 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the details of the number of third level grant awards from 1997 to date, by each county council and local authority area and by parental occupation or class of parental occupation. [18896/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 110 and 111 together.
The information requested by the Deputy is not immediately available in my Department. However, the information is being compiled from the records maintained in my Department and in so far as it is available in the format requested, the information will be issued directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Special Educational Needs.
Pat Breen
Question:112 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when a resource teacher will be appointed for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18897/04]
I can confirm that my Department has received an application for 3.5 hours resource teaching support for the pupil referred to by the Deputy.
All applications for special educational resources received after 31 August 2003, including the application for the person in question, are being considered by the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS. In those cases, it is intended that the applicant schools will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible in advance of the commencement of the next school year.
Recognition of Qualifications.
Arthur Morgan
Question:113 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department recognises third level qualifications held by persons who gained those qualifications in recognised British universities; if there is a system in place which requires the holders of such qualifications to be assessed by his Department; and the reason for this system and if it amounts to a failure of his Department to recognise qualifications from competent third level institutions in Britain. [18898/04]
A general system for mutual recognition of professional qualifications is provided for under the EU Directives 89/48/EEC, 92/51/EEC and 2001/19/EEC and transposed into national law by my Department by means of Statutory Instruments No. 1 of 1991, No. 135 of 1995 and No. 36 of 2004.
This system applies to persons who have gained professional recognition in an EU member state and who wish to undertake that profession in another member state of the EU. The system provides that such professionals can apply to the designated competent authority for equivalent professional recognition in a host member state. Individual applications are assessed by the appropriate regulatory body in the host member state within the regulations governing admission to the particular profession in that state.
Where the competent authority establishes that there are substantial differences between the professional qualifications held by the applicant and those required of that profession in the host member state, a compensatory measure may be imposed, satisfactory completion of which must precede the grant of recognition.
In the case of recognition of secondary teachers, the competent authority in this State is the Registration Council. Applications for the recognition of qualifications for the purpose of registration are considered by the council at meetings that take place on a regular basis. In order for the council to assess the suitability of qualifications for teaching purposes, full details of the courses of study pursued must be submitted. A decision of the council is issued to an applicant within four months of receipt of a fully completed application for recognition together with all necessary supporting documentation.
The council will afford provisional recognition to an applicant on submission of an application supported by satisfactory documentary evidence of the applicant's professional standing as a second level teacher from a competent authority in another member state. This will allow the applicant to seek employment in State funded teaching positions in second level schools pending a decision of the Registration Council. However, failure to satisfactorily complete any compensatory measures imposed will lead to the withdrawal of provisional recognition.
If the Deputy has a particular person in mind he might refer him or her to the secretariat of the Registration Council at the offices of my Department in Athlone, where he or she will be advised as to how to apply for recognition of the qualifications in question.
Student Support Schemes.
Seán Ardagh
Question:114 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W will be assisted in relation to expenses towards their child’s schooling. [18904/04]
The application referred to by the Deputy has been reviewed by my Department. The position is that my Department considers that satisfactory education facilities exist in the State to meet the person's educational needs. In the circumstances, funding will not be made available by my Department for the person in question to attend school abroad.
Special Educational Needs.
Seán Crowe
Question:115 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science asked the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 will receive a place in a special needs class. [18911/04]
I am aware that an application was made for the placement of the child in question in a special class in the school referred to the Deputy. I understand that there is currently no spare capacity in the class and that the pupil has been placed on a waiting list. The National Education Welfare Board is currently liaising with the child's parents with a view to securing an alternative placement.
Finian McGrath
Question:116 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give an update on new services for children with acute special educational needs. [18917/04]
In Circular 24/03, the Department stated its intention to engage in discussions with representative interests with a view to developing a weighted system of teacher allocations for special needs teaching. The allocation of an additional 350 teaching posts for special needs and a new system for the allocation of resources for special needs in primary schools have now been approved.
The new system will involve a general weighted allocation for all primary schools to cater for pupils with higher incidence special educational needs, borderline mild and mild general learning disability and specific learning disability, and those with learning support needs, that is, functioning at or below the tenth percentile on a standardised test of reading and/or mathematics. It will also allow for individual allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence special educational needs, which are those pupils referred to by the Deputy.
Details of the weighted system are outlined in Circular SP ED 09/04 which may be accessed on my Department's website www.education.ie under children with special needs.
Teachers’ Remuneration.
Michael Ring
Question:117 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason part time and substitute teachers who were involved in what was known as voluntary supervision were not given the once off payment as a token gesture for their efforts similar to other teachers; when this payment will be made; if he will place persons in this position on a pay scale that equals their service in the profession; and when the backpay due to them will be paid. [18924/04]
The arrangements sought by and agreed with the teacher unions in relation to payment of supervision/substitution work carried out in the 2001-02 school year provided that permanent, temporary and eligible part-time teachers who were part of the allocation of staff of the school and who served in the school year were eligible to claim payment. Permanent and temporary wholetime teachers who were certified as having engaged in voluntary supervision/substitution over and above timetabled hours qualified for payment of the full amount. Eligible part-time teachers qualified for payment on a pro-rata basis.
Considerable agreement has been reached at the Teachers Conciliation Council on appropriate rates of pay for part-time teachers which are in accordance with the terms of the Protection of Employees (Part-Time) Work Act 2001. The rates have been applied in respect of the current school year and discussions are ongoing with a view to agreeing a mechanism for payment of arrears due as soon as possible having regard to the significant number of part-time teachers involved and the administrative difficulties associated in calculating the arrears due. Part-time qualified teaching service given since 20 December 2001 will be taken into account where appropriate.
School Staffing.
Denis Naughten
Question:118 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if an appointment of a resource teacher for a pupil (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18929/04]
I can confirm that my Department received an application for resource teaching support on 17 May 2004 for the child referred to by the Deputy. I understand that the child is due to commence school on 1 September 2004.
All applications for special educational resources received after 31 August 2003, including the application for the person in question are being considered by the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS. In those cases, it is intended that the applicant schools will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible in advance of the commencement of the next school year.
Occupational Illnesses.
Beverley Flynn
Question:119 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers which have been approved for a disability pension from his Department on the grounds of job related stress. [18946/04]
Beverley Flynn
Question:120 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers that have been approved for disability pensions by his Department; and the illness or disabilities that have been cited as the reason for approval. [18947/04]
Beverley Flynn
Question:121 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers which have been seen by the occupational consultant (details supplied); the number of teachers which have been approved by same for a disability pension. [18948/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 119 to 121, inclusive, together.
Statistics regarding the numbers of disability pensions awarded to teachers by my Department are maintained on a calendar year basis. In 2003, the numbers of disability pensions awarded came to 122, whereas 132 were awarded in 2002.
The information sought by the Deputy regarding the specific illnesses or disabilities which have given rise to the award of disability pensions and regarding the numbers of cases in respect of which the opinion of a particular occupational health consultant has been sought, is maintained by the office of the chief medical officer for the Civil Service. My Department will contact the office of the chief medical officer in this regard and will communicate separately with the Deputy in the matter.
I should add that disability pensions are awarded where my Department is satisfied that the teacher in question is incapable of performing his or her duties by reason of permanent infirmity of mind or body. All applications by teachers for a disability pension must be assessed by the chief medical officer for the Civil Service. It is open to the chief medical officer to make a recommendation to my Department on the basis of the application or to seek a second opinion.
Vocational Education Committees.
Michael Ring
Question:122 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the VEC positions are not being filled now during the annual general meeting of the county councils being held in June 2004; and the reason it is necessary to delay this selection until September 2004. [18952/04]
As the Deputy is aware, the Vocational Education (Amendment) Act, 2001 provides that in addition to the members elected by the county borough or council in the vocational education area and members elected by town councils, formerly urban district councils, the composition of vocational education committees shall also include two members elected by parents, two members elected by VEC staff and four members to be appointed who will be representative of other constituencies including students, voluntary organisations and the business community.
The election of VEC members by parents and staff is scheduled to take place in September next when schools are re-opened after the summer vacation. In the circumstances I am of the view that the election of members by local authorities should also take place in September next. Accordingly, I have asked the local authorities, through the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, not to elect members to the VEC at this time.
Consultancy Contracts.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:123 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 280 of 17 February 2004, if he will give names of the consultants, PR agencies, groups or individuals referred to in his report received in this Deputy’s office in June 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18955/04]
The information requested by the Deputy is contained in the following tabular statement.
|
Consultants |
Project |
Cost |
|
Year 1999 |
£ |
|
|
S. Ó hUallacháin |
Interim Review of Institutes of Technology |
4,935 |
|
ARCLINE |
Archival Records — EDP & An Gúm |
70,210 |
|
Ernst & Young |
Review of Structures in the Building Unit |
10,605 |
|
Sunglen |
YEAR 2000 |
8,783 |
|
Sequel |
Conversion — Year 2000 |
3,087 |
|
Wellington |
Post-Primary Payroll |
847 |
|
Core Computers |
Primary/Post-Primary Payroll |
14,098 |
|
Excelsan Computers |
LOTUS Notes |
1,759 |
|
Quest Computers |
Post-Primary Database |
46,222 |
|
Gartner Group |
Web Research |
331 |
|
Software Paths |
Schools Database. |
2,723 |
|
Oliver Freaney & Co. |
Accountancy Services |
54,599 |
|
Hay Management |
Interview — Psychologists. |
2,904 |
|
Maria Curley |
Computer Aptitude Tests. |
159 |
|
Sean Nolan |
Review of Funding of Second-Level Schools. |
2,400 |
|
Prospectus |
Business Planning Review of Special Education Unit |
69,824 |
|
WRC Social and Economic Consultants |
Review of VTOS |
17,480 |
|
WRC Social & Economic Consultants |
Women’s Education Initiative |
20,100 |
|
Noel Lindsay |
Savings and Loan Fund for Adult and Continuing Education |
3,000 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Organisational Review of the Department |
25,477 |
|
Economics Dept — UCD. |
To assess both quantitatively and qualitatively the social and economic contribution of the proposals contained in the Department’s initial outline of priority needs for the forthcoming National Development Plan and Community Support Framework, for the period 2000-2006 |
4,750 |
|
Year 2000 |
£ |
|
|
Prospectus |
Business Planning & Partnerships |
17,949 |
|
Prospectus |
Review of Special Education |
26,645 |
|
Prospectus |
Staff Survey on Internal Communications |
23,262 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Organisational Review |
35,214 |
|
Ernst & Young |
Review of Work in Building Unit |
15,137 |
|
Oliver Freaney & Co. |
Third Level Finance Accountancy |
19,950 |
|
S. O’hUallacháin |
Interim Review of Institutes of Technology |
1,100 |
|
Gartner Group |
Research Advisory Services (I.T.) |
34,878 |
|
Quest Computing |
PPP UPD 2 Programme Change |
207 |
|
ICON Systems |
Special Educ. Document Management Systems |
20,766 |
|
Software Paths |
Further Development Schools Extract Data |
3,376 |
|
Core Computers |
Post-Primary Payroll |
2,744 |
|
Core Computers |
Primary Payroll |
4,068 |
|
Wellington Computers |
Primary Payroll |
14,208 |
|
EPS Software |
Lotus Notes Development |
18,377 |
|
LAN Communications |
E-Mail Messaging MS |
4,828 |
|
Mail for NEPS |
7,110 |
|
|
CARA |
Infrastructure Wiring Course |
1,688.00 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Primary Statistics |
21,598.00 |
|
Your Questions Answered (C. Sheffield) |
Employee Assistance Service Review |
4,090.00 |
|
Dermot Rochford |
Review of Employee Assistance Scheme |
8,894.00 |
|
Lesley Dee |
Orchard Cope Foundation |
5,075.00 |
|
Micheál Ó Flannagáin |
Review of Special Educational Provisions for Students with Disabilities. |
8,684.00 |
|
P. Ó Ríordáin |
Superannuation Code Training |
1,003.00 |
|
Dennehy Associates |
PR Consultancy |
19,360.00 |
|
Crowleys — DFK |
ESF Verification Report |
69,088.00 |
|
Price Waterhouse |
Evaluation of the Department’s Schools IT 2000 Programme |
24,200.00 |
|
Inishowen Technology |
School Information and Communication Technology |
16,800.00 |
|
NUI — Maynooth |
Adult Education Green & White Papers |
35,000.00 |
|
WRC Social and Economic Consultants |
Review of VTOS |
11,654.00 |
|
WRC Social and Economic consultants |
Women’s Education Initiative |
20,100.00 |
|
Noel Lindsay |
Savings and Loan Fund for Adult and Continuing Education |
2,000.00 |
|
Dermot Rochford |
Staffing resource and organizational needs for the NQAI, FETAC and HETAC |
14,336.08 |
|
Eustace Patterson Ltd |
Review of Gaisce |
15,157.00 |
|
The Children Research Centre, Trinity College |
Preparation of the National Youth Work Development Plan |
54,300.00 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Schools Bundle/CSM PPP projects |
113,426.47 |
|
Dr. Peter Renshaw |
Irish Academy for the Performing Arts. |
4,115.00 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
To report under Section 20 of RTC Act 1992 |
32,017.18 |
|
IPA (Dermot Rochford) |
The Staffing needs of Administration office in Tourism College Killybegs |
4089.90 |
|
Tony Bromwell |
Review of safety Procedures in Lisnagry, Co. Limerick |
3,534.00 |
|
WRC Consultants |
Improving effectiveness of VTOS |
29,140.00 |
|
Year 2001 |
£ |
|
|
EPS Software |
Lotus Notes Development |
1,361.25 |
|
Core Computers |
Corepay 2000 |
7,475.50 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Software Development |
62,203.96 |
|
ICON Systems |
Document Management System |
19,924.00 |
|
Connect Business Solutions |
Lotus Notes |
15,471.00 |
|
Wellington Computer Systems |
Capitation System for Primary Schools |
57,164.00 |
|
Gartner Ireland Ltd |
Research Advisory Services |
20,509.19 |
|
Dennehy Associates |
Public Relations |
78,630.00 |
|
Sean Cromien |
Review of the Department’s Operations, systems and staffing needs. |
16,500.00 |
|
Prospectus |
Internal Customer Service Action Plan and Business Planning |
4,848.00 |
|
Micheál Ó Flannagáin |
Task Force on Autism |
35,827.29 |
|
Eamon McGuinness |
Task Force on Dyslexia |
14,134.90 |
|
Coras Info Consulting Ltd |
Software Payments Database |
18,937.50 |
|
Mary Browne |
Preparation of Asset Register |
300.00 |
|
Mazars Consulting |
Implementation of Corepay for Department |
103,604.85 |
|
Peggy O’Riordan |
Training on Superannuation Scheme |
5,032.32 |
|
Jack O’Brien |
Review of Music Provisions in VECs |
2,500.00 |
|
P.O’Sionnaigh |
Technical Assistance to Post-Primary Building Unit |
17,000.00 |
|
Dermot Rochford |
VEC Staffing Study |
53,331.47 |
|
PricewaterhouseCoopers |
Review of Financial Guidelines |
7,440.00 |
|
Jonathan Williams |
Editing of Reports |
550.00 |
|
Michael Collins |
Architectural Advice |
20,400.00 |
|
Eddie Leane |
Training of Staff on Financial System in PPBU. |
569.00 |
|
Sean Ó Fiachra |
OECD INES Network C. Development of a new Governing Structure for the Education Research Centre in Drumcondra |
8,321.00 |
|
Dominic McCanny |
Investigation for Personnel |
2,062.43 |
|
National Women’s Council of Ireland |
Technical Support for Education Equality Initiative |
65,792.00 |
|
AV Edge |
TV Adult Literacy series |
380,086.00 |
|
McIvor Consulting |
Review of PLC sector |
69,985.00 |
|
WRC Social and Economic Consultants |
Women’s Education Initiative |
6,700.00 |
|
PricewaterhouseCooper |
Evaluation of Department’s Schools IT 2000 programme |
24,000.00 |
|
Work Research Co-operative, Social and Economic Consultants Ltd |
Independent assessment of the young People’s Facilities and Services Fund |
22,848.00 |
|
Connect Business Systems |
Engineering Services |
10,251.00 |
|
The Children Research Centre, Trinity College |
Preparation of the National Youth Work Development Plan |
32,605.00 |
|
PricewaterhouseCooper |
The impact of Schools IT2000 |
77,768.00 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Schools Bundle/CSM PPP projects |
224,583.50 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
National Maritime College of Ireland PPP |
265,000.00 |
|
Jordan Akustik |
Cork School of Music |
4,405.63 |
|
Mr. Seán Nolan |
Legal basis for the establishment of the Irish Academy for the Performing Arts |
2,499.73 |
|
Educational Research Centre |
Evaluation of the sole use of the — answer questions in Apprentice Tests |
29,766.00 |
|
Anne Colgan |
Task Force on Autism |
10,000.00 |
|
Tony Bromwell |
Review of safety Procedures in Lisnagry, Co. Limerick |
1,923.00 |
|
McIver Consulting |
Review of PLC sector |
88,722.00 |
|
Options Consulting |
Further Education consultancy |
4,571.00 |
|
Eustace Patterson |
Contribution to study of FIT |
7,618.00 |
|
Year 2002 |
€ |
|
|
Dennehy Associates |
Public Relations |
8,443.65 |
|
Connect Business Solutions |
Development Work on Lotus Notes |
5,130.07 |
|
Dermot Rochford |
Study of VEC Staffing Structure and Job Evaluation of Librarian (St. Catherine’s) |
25,606.50 |
|
Micheál Ó Flannagáin |
Task Force on Autism |
32,549.17 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Software Development and Feasibility Study |
16,087.07 |
|
Wellington Computer Systems |
Euro Conversion for Primary Grants |
6,766.19 |
|
Jack O’Brien |
Report on the Composition and Structure of the NCCA and Future of St. Catherine’s College |
9,500.00 |
|
Declan Brennan |
Qualification Allowance Appeals Committee |
1,038.29 |
|
Icon Systems |
Document Management Systems for Special Education |
14,297.25 |
|
Eamonn McGuinness |
Task Force on Dyslexia |
3,740.00 |
|
Dominic McCanny |
Investigation for Personnel |
523.75 |
|
Tony O’Gorman |
Managing Suicide Prevention in Schools |
659.12 |
|
Sean Glennane |
OECD Ines Network C Contract |
3,561.67 |
|
Core Computer Consultants |
Core pay for Primary/Post Primary payroll |
64,009.32 |
|
System Dynamics Solutions Ltd |
Development + Support with Lotus Notes applications |
58,310.03 |
|
Helen Leonard |
Survey to evaluate pay of Library staff in St. Catherine’s |
3807.36 |
|
IPA |
Providing Quality Service |
1,000.00 |
|
Mazars Consulting |
Corepay Support |
22,997.18 |
|
A& L Goodbody |
PPP Projects |
3,840.79 |
|
Gartner Ireland |
Overview Assessment of draft IT Strategy |
6,050.00 |
|
Occupational Health Consultants |
Asbestos Lecture |
751.73 |
|
National Women’s Council of Ireland |
Technical Support for Education Equality Initiative |
87,000.00 |
|
AV Edge |
TV Adult Literacy Series |
469,201.00 |
|
McIvor Consulting |
Review of PLC Sector |
48,164.96 |
|
Mazars and McIvor |
Staffing and Structure Review of National Adult Learning Council |
49,948.00 |
|
AHEAD |
Review of Disability Needs in Further Education |
38,000.00 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
National Maritime College of Ireland PPP |
119,185.00 |
|
Cynthia Deane |
Educational Disadvantage Forum |
6,050.00 |
|
McIver Consulting |
Review of PLC sector |
48,164.00 |
|
Vision One Software Ltd |
Feasibility study of adult education database |
66,631.00 |
|
Eustace Patterson |
Contribution to study of FIT |
7,682.00 |
|
Mazars McIver |
Assessment of staffing requirements of National Adult Learning Council |
4,695.00 |
|
Year 2003 |
€ |
|
|
Declan Brennan |
Qualification Allowance Appeal Committee |
2,431.20 |
|
Core Computer Consultants |
Corepay — Primary |
8,861.74 |
|
Systems Dynamics Solutions |
PQ System Development and Lotus Notes Support |
6,685.25 |
|
JJ O’Dwyer + Associates |
Review of Partnership in Department |
9,740.50 |
|
Sean Glennane |
OECD Ines Network C Contract |
12,666.53 |
|
Icon Systems |
Special Education Document Management |
13,310.00 |
|
Giant Accountancy Services |
Reading Recovery Study |
850.00 |
|
Eamonn McGuinness |
Advisory Committee of the deaf and hard of hearing |
32,836.14 |
|
Micheal Ó Flanagáin |
Applications for students with disabilities for equipment/ Steering Group for Autism at Middletown Centre, Armagh |
16,911.02 |
|
Michael Collins Associates |
Architectural Advice |
28,059.97 |
|
IPA |
Providing Quality Service/Implementation of Devolved Control |
13,705.00 |
|
Client Solutions Ltd |
Web Development |
7,970.88 |
|
Dr Maeve Martin |
Desk Study on Montessori Teachers Qualifications |
6,300.00 |
|
Ashby Food Safety Associates Ltd |
Tendering process for light equipment |
1,452.00 |
|
Dr. Jane Pillinger |
For work on Equality/Diversity Booklet |
|
|
Jack O’Brien |
State Financial Support for and Recognition of Parental Representation at Second Level |
4,000.00 |
|
Datanet Ltd |
Feasibilty Study on Providing Broadband Connectivity to Schools |
78,974.74 |
|
John Coolahan |
Writing of Eurydice Dossier |
6,866.40 |
|
Indecon Consultants |
Report of the Socrates and Leonardo daVinci programmes |
97,000.00 |
|
Dr. Tom Mitchell |
Irish Academy of Performing Arts |
3,900.00 |
|
Accenture |
Consultancy on FMS project |
87,429.89 |
|
Talbot Associates Ltd.. |
Review of Supply Teacher Scheme |
114,300.00 |
|
Audit of Enrolments & Use of Release Time Scheme in Primary Schools |
PricewaterhouseCooper Ltd. |
57,000.00 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
National Maritime College of Ireland PPP |
72,863.78 |
|
Mazars McIver |
Assessment of staffing requirements of National Adult Learning Council |
42,253.00 |
|
Cooney Carey |
Study on transitional difficulties experienced by schools following the phasing out of Community Employment schemes |
37,401.00 |
|
Year 2004 (to May 2004) |
||
|
Market Research Bureau of Ireland |
Qualitative Depths |
8,712.00 |
|
Icon Systems |
Special Education Management System |
1,331.00 |
|
Mazars |
Professional fees for Finance Unit Support |
7,461.40 |
|
Carr Communications |
Facilitation at official function |
1,900.00 |
|
Butler Group UK |
Ptinum Subscription Service |
11,676.56 |
|
Sean Glennane |
Review of Post Primary Special Needs Application |
12,386.32 |
|
Michael Ó Flannagáin |
Review of Post Primary Special Needs Application |
10,932.90 |
|
Softex |
Consultancy on QSC targets |
2,420.00 |
|
Market Research Bureau of Ireland |
Customer Service Survey |
10,073.25 |
|
Carr Communications |
Advice, support and assistance for YES process |
14,74.31 |
|
Fiona Looney |
Consultancy for YES process |
750.00 |
|
Liam Cahill |
Consultancy for YES process |
250.00 |
|
Cahill’s Sport Emporium |
Speech for Minister |
900.00 |
Higher Education Grants.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:124 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if persons (details supplied) in County Kildare can qualify for higher education grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18956/04]
The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired. It appears that no such advice or instruction has, to date, been sought in the case of the students, referred to by the Deputy.
If an individual applicant considers that s/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, s/he may appeal to the relevant local authority or VEC.
Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant local authority or VEC, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his/her case, a letter outlining the position may be sent to my Department. Alternatively, as already indicated, the local authority or VEC may, itself, in exceptional circumstances, seek clarification on issues from my Department.
However, it is not open to me, or my Department, to depart from the terms of the maintenance grants schemes in individual cases.
Sports Funding.
Finian McGrath
Question:125 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will give the maximum support and advice to a club (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and to work closely with the club in seeking a pitch. [18915/04]
The national lottery funded sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. While this scheme does fund pitch development work, it specifically excludes support for the purchase of premises or sites.
Grants totalling €303,158 have been allocated to the club in question since 1999 under the sports capital programme including a grant of €50,000 provisionally allocated under the 2004 programme. Of these allocations approximately €203,000 was towards the development of a full size sand based pitch and an all weather training facility. To date all of the funding allocated to the club has been paid with the exception of the 2004 provisional grant which I announced last month and which was towards replacing the roof of their main hall.
It is open to the club, should it wish to do so and should it have a project which satisfies the terms and conditions of the programme, to submit an application to the 2005 sports capital programme when that scheme is publicly advertised towards the end of this year.
Finian McGrath
Question:126 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will give the maximum support and assistance to a group (details supplied) in Dublin 9 in their efforts to find a den or to point them in the direction in getting a premises on the northside of Dublin. [18916/04]
The national lottery-funded sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. It is advertised on an annual basis. Projects under the programme must be directly related to the provision of sport and recreation facilities. The programme does not assist in the purchase of sites, premises or personal equipment but rather only projects of a capital nature, which, for the purpose of the programme, are defined as expenditure on the improvement or construction of an asset and includes any costs directly incurred in this process and purchase of permanently based sports equipment, that is, equipment which is securely housed and will remain in use for five years or more.
My Department can only assist the organisation in question should it have a project in keeping with the basic criteria for the sports capital programme, as listed above, in which case it is open to them to apply under the 2005 sports capital programme, which is likely to be advertised towards the end of this year. The organisation has not applied to the programme in recent years. It can contact the sports unit of my Department if any further information is required.
Medical Cards.
Gay Mitchell
Question:127 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if the SWAHB will issue a medical card to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24. [18907/04]
Responsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board/authority.
However, persons suffering from any of the following conditions, who are not already medical card holders, may obtain without charge drugs and medicines for the treatment of that condition under the long-term illness scheme: mental handicap; mental illness — for persons under 16 years only; phenylketonuria; cystic fibrosis; spina bifida; hydrocephalus; diabetes mellitus; diabetes insipidus; haemophilia; cerebral palsy; epilepsy; multiple sclerosis; muscular dystrophies; parkinsonism; thalidomide; and acute leukaemia.
The individual concerned has an illness that is covered under the long term illness scheme.
Health Board Services.
Gay Mitchell
Question:128 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if the SWAHB will replace the spectacles of a person (details supplied). [18908/04]
The provision of optical services, and any matters relating to such provision, within its functional area, is a matter for the relevant health board or the Eastern Regional Health Authority. In the case referred to by the Deputy this responsibility lies with the ERHA.
In the circumstances my Department has requested the regional chief executive of the ERHA to reply direct to the Deputy.
Medical Cards.
Seán Crowe
Question:129 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person’s (details supplied) medical card was stopped. [18919/04]
Responsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board/authority. My Department has therefore asked the regional chief executive of the Eastern Regional Health Authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.
Health Board Services.
Finian McGrath
Question:130 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 will be granted full assistance and to ensure their dignity is safeguarded. [18920/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Dublin 7 area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the Northern Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.
Adoption Services.
Willie Penrose
Question:131 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is the policy of health boards not to accept outside help in relation to home study courses for adoptive parents, and in particular where a person (details supplied) is a licensed clinical social worker and a national qualified social worker, and who is prepared to offer such courses, to a health board to enable adoptive parents to undertake the necessary home study course prior to being approved for adoption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18931/04]
Willie Penrose
Question:132 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will confirm having received the enclosed details from a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; if he will take steps to deal with the situation; where there is not a sufficient number of home study courses provided for such persons; if he will take steps to expedite the provision of such home study course, wherever in the country for these persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18932/04]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 131 and 132 together.
A standardised framework for intercountry adoption assessment was introduced in 1999 to streamline assessments and to provide a transparent system centred on the child's best interests. When introduced, the framework was welcomed by both health boards and prospective adopters, and it is regarded very highly in countries from which Irish people adopt. The framework is being implemented nationally.
Assessments for intercountry and domestic adoptions are carried out by health boards or by registered adoption societies. At the outset of the process, applicants are placed on a health board/adoption society waiting list for assessment. The waiting list for assessment varies throughout the country. The assessment process itself involves a number of stages and would generally include an initial assessment, a considerable level of education/preparation work, including an exploration with prospective adoptive parents of the challenges and issues that are likely to arise when undertaking adoption, and a home study assessment. The purpose of the assessment process is to determine whether applicants are suitable to adopt a child and the length of the process can vary between applicants depending on the particular circumstances of each case, bearing in mind at all times the best interests of the child.
The length of time it takes to complete the necessary assessment and the allocation of resources within the health board is a matter for the management of each individual health board and I understand that the social worker in question has been in contact with the relevant health board in this matter.
I am in receipt of representations from the named person and a reply will issue within the next week.
Medical Cards.
John McGuinness
Question:133 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny on medical grounds; and if he will expedite a decision in the case. [18939/04]
Responsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board/authority. My Department has therefore asked the chief executive officer of the South Eastern Health Board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.
Nursing Home Subventions.
John McGuinness
Question:134 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if the balance of subvention due to Drakelands Nursing Home, Kilkenny, will now be paid immediately by the South Eastern Health Board in the case of a person (details supplied). [18940/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Kilkenny area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Eastern Health Board. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.
Driving Tests.
Phil Hogan
Question:135 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport when a driving test will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18918/04]
The applicant has been placed on a cancellation list for a driving test at the Kilkenny driving test centre.
Airport Security.
Róisín Shortall
Question:136 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to reports in a Sunday newspaper (details supplied) to the effect that a reporter was able to clear security at Shannon airport in spite of having bomb-making components in their luggage on one occasion and in their hand luggage on another occasion; if he will carry out an investigation into this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18981/04]
I am aware of the allegations contained in the Sunday newspaper referred to by the Deputy.
I have been advised that the baggage of the reporter presented at the check-in desk at Dublin Airport for an outward flight to Shannon Airport and at the passenger screening point for a return flight from Shannon to Dublin Airport did not contain any prohibited articles or materials which could cause an act of unlawful interference against civil aviation.
I am aware that the security screening equipment at Irish airports operates to internationally recognised standards and that the performance of screening personnel is kept under continuous review. If the baggage of the reporter contained any explosives or other prohibited articles, these would be detected through the screening processes.
Aviation security arrangements at Irish airports are kept under continuous review by my Department and the national civil aviation security committee. The committee is chaired by a senior official from my Department. The committee comprises representatives of Departments, Aer Rianta, airlines, the Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, Customs and Excise, An Post, Irish Aviation Authority, the Irish Airline Pilots' Association and the regional airports.
Consultancy Contracts.
Róisín Shortall
Question:137 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide details of the cost of consultancies which he has funded in respect of Aer Rianta in 2003-04; if he will provide details of the first PWC report, the second PWC report, the Mazars report and the Farrell Grant Sparks report. [18988/04]
In March 2003 PricewaterhouseCoopers, PWC, prepared certain financial information for the Department of Transport to assist it in giving policy advice to the Government concerning the programme for Government commitment that Shannon and Cork Airports would have greater autonomy and independence. This analysis of detailed projections provided by Aer Rianta was undertaken by PWC at a cost of €58,685, including VAT.
Following a public tender process conducted in accordance with EU public procurement procedures, my Department engaged a consortium of advisers in November last year comprising PricewaterhouseCoopers, Matheson Ormsby Prentice and a UK based transport consulting firm, Steer Davies Gleave, to advise on all aspects of the preparations, procedures and implementation of the restructuring of the State airports. The matters covered by this contract include advice in relation to corporate finance issues, accounting and tax issues, economic regulation of airports and associated legal advice.
The advisers were not engaged to produce a report but rather to provide, inter alia, expert advice in relation to the options for giving effect to the Government decision of July last to establish the three State airports as independent autonomous authorities under State ownership. The precise cost of the advisers will ultimately depend on the level of expert resources necessary to bring this important project to fruition.
As part of its work, PWC assisted my Department in its analysis of revised and updated financial projections and data provided both by Aer Rianta at group level and by the chairmen-designate in conjunction with local Aer Rianta management at Shannon and Cork Airports. These working papers contain confidential and commercially sensitive information. They were, however, provided to Farrell Grant Sparks and Mazars who were engaged by ICTU and the Aer Rianta unions to examine the financial information on their behalf. Both of these companies entered into a strict confidentiality agreement with my Department in respect of these working papers. The arrangements relating to this latter consultancy, including the cost involved, are a matter between the unions and their advisers. However, at the request of ICTU, my Department agreed to make a contribution of €50,000 maximum towards the cost of the unions' financial advisers.
Registration of Title.
Cecilia Keaveney
Question:138 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a Land Registry application for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18903/04]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for transfer of part which was lodged on 13 August 2002. Dealing No. D2002WS006667K refers. I am further informed that this application was completed on 22 June 2004.
Refugee Status.
Billy Timmins
Question:139 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for refugee status from a person (details supplied); when this will be granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18905/04]
The person in question arrived in the State on 13 January 1999 and claimed asylum. The Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner recommended that he should not be declared as a refugee and he was notified of this recommendation on 24 August 2001. He then appealed this recommendation to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Following an oral hearing, the original recommendation was affirmed and he was informed of this decision on 10 September 2002. On 13 November 2002, the applicant was granted leave in the High Court to initiate judicial review proceedings against the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. In a High Court judgment delivered on 25 June 2003 the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal was upheld.
In accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, the person concerned was informed on 8 July 2003 that it was proposed to make a deportation order in his case. He was given the options of making representations within 15 working days setting out the reasons he should not be deported, that is, be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leave the State voluntarily before the order was made; or consent to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned. His file will be considered within the terms of section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 — prohibition of refoulement. I expect his case file to be submitted to me for consideration shortly.
Juvenile Offenders.
Seán Crowe
Question:140 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24, who is currently in custody in Oberstown House for a variety of offences; if the relevant Garda authorities contacted social services regarding this person as per the Children Act; the reason no social worker was assigned; if the Garda authorities stress the need, urgency and priority of outside intervention; if a case study has been carried out on the person and the problems with their family and environment; if a social worker has been assigned to their case and will this be followed through on their release; the steps that are being taken by him and outside agencies to rehabilitate this person and to address the underlying problems associated with this person and their family; and if the Department experiencing similar difficulties regarding social services dealing with troublesome minors. [18921/04]
The person referred to by the Deputy was committed on remand from the Children's Court to Oberstown House on 11 May 2004, with, as I understand, another court appearance scheduled for 7 July 2004. As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for the administration of Oberstown boys' school comes under the aegis of the Department of Education and Science.
With regard to the Deputy's reference to the Children Act, I presume he is referring to section 59 of the Children Act 2001 under which the gardaí are obliged to inform the health board of a child in custody on suspicion of committing an offence if they reasonably believe that the child is in need of care or protection. Section 59 of the Children Act 2001 has not, as yet, been commenced. Responsibility for the implementation of this section of the Act lies with the Department of Health and Children. The assignment of social workers is normally a matter for the relevant health board. I have been advised by the Garda Commissioner that the Garda authorities have been in touch with personnel from the South Western Heath Board in relation to the welfare of the child in question and also have liased with the Traveller unit department in South Dublin County Council.
I can also inform the Deputy that this youth is already under the supervision of the Probation and Welfare Service having first been referred to that service by the courts over two years ago. I am also in a position to confirm that a case study has been carried out on this youth by the Probation and Welfare Service and the gardaí are aware of the Probation and Welfare Service involvement in this specific case.
Dublin Bombings.
Finian McGrath
Question:141 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is a Garda record of a taxi being hijacked and taken to the Dublin mountains the night before the 1974 Dublin bombings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18922/04]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is a record on Garda files of two taxis being hijacked in separate incidents on 16 May 1974, the night before the Dublin bombings, but it is not clear where either was subsequently taken.
Prisoner Death Inquiry.
Willie Penrose
Question:142 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will indicate if an investigation is being held into the circumstances surrounding the death of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18933/04]
I am informed that a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of this sad event by the Governor of Mountjoy Prison is nearing completion and he is expected to report to me in a matter of days.
I would also like to inform the Deputy that, in common with all deaths in prison custody, the gardaí are also conducting their own investigation into this incident. In addition, this death, as with all deaths in prison custody, may be subject to an inquest before a Coroner's Court.
Closed Circuit Television Systems.
Seán Ryan
Question:143 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on the need to provide closed circuit television in Swords, County Dublin; the timescale for same; and when the people of Swords can expect this to be provided. [18986/04]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that an application for a Garda CCTV system in Swords has been received by the CCTV Advisory Committee. This committee was established by the Garda Commissioner to advise on all matters relating to CCTV systems. This application is currently under consideration by the advisory committee along with applications from other towns throughout the country.
However, it should be noted that there are 17 CCTV schemes nationwide which are either at installation, tender or planning stages that will have to be completed prior to the initiation of future CCTV projects.
Turbary Rights.
Paul Connaughton
Question:144 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his Department’s policy on the question of turf cutting on special areas of conservation bogs in so far as the bogs that were so classified SAC in 2003 and 2002; if the derogation of ten years that was given to other bogs will be applied in this situation; the compensation rates that are available for such bogs if farmers are not allowed to cut turf; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18901/04]
Peat extraction for domestic purposes in candidate special areas of conservation, cSACs, does not generally result in significant damage to the conservation value of sites in the short term. In this context, arrangements announced in 1999 provided that domestic turf cutting in cSACs could be allowed to continue for up to ten years from date of notification of proposed designation, in order to give owners time to make new arrangements for alternative sources of supply, save in exceptionally sensitive parts of the bogs which would be identified by my Department. Similar arrangements now apply to additional bogs proposed for designation more recently, as referred to in the question.
The following rates of compensation are payable for raised bogs under the cessation of turf cutting scheme on cSACs. These rates are currently being reviewed by my Department. The rates are: €1,650.66 per acre for freehold title — a contribution will be paid towards legal costs in this instance; €1,396.71 per acre for turbary rights — no contribution payable towards legal costs is payable in this instance; and €253.95 per acre for fee simple title — a contribution will be paid towards legal costs in this instance.
Most damage to cSACs for peat extraction is caused by commercial and industrial operations. In order to maintain the conservation value of these sites, such damaging operations have stopped or are being phased out over as short a period as possible. Commercial operators must consult my Department and cutting is only permitted to continue in the short term in exceptional circumstances. Each case is assessed on an individual basis and, if it is found that cutting must cease in order to protect the cSAC, compensation will be paid for proven actual loss.
Social Welfare Schemes.
Michael Ring
Question:145 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will furnish all details of the stores and companies who submitted tenders to supply the Western Health Board with furniture and electrical goods for persons applying for assistance under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme; and if the quotations given were inclusive of VAT. [18925/04]
The legislation governing the supplementary welfare allowance scheme provides that responsibility for its administration lies with the relevant health board. It is a matter for the Western Health Board, when it has decided that goods or services should be supplied to persons in exceptional circumstances, to make necessary arrangements.
For some years the Western Health Board has operated a policy of using a central supplier/s for the types of goods in question. The board has found that this policy works well from the point of view of efficiency and good value for money. The contract to supply the type of goods in question is reviewed regularly. The latest contract was put in place approximately two months ago.
It was open to suppliers, in response to the board's request for proposals, to apply for the contract for the entire functional area of the board or to submit tenders for parts of the area.
As I said in response to a previous question on this issue, I am assured by the board that the arrangements made were in compliance with best procurement practices. However, I have no involvement in the procedures in question and I would not consider it appropriate for me to be involved in conveying information on the lines requested by the Deputy.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:146 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare qualifies for mortgage support; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18970/04]
The South Western Area Health Board was contacted again regarding this case and has confirmed that the position remains as outlined in my reply to Question No. 152 which I answered for the Deputy on 1 April 2004.
Payment of a mortgage interest supplement ceased following an increase in the level of household income which meant that the person concerned had sufficient means to provide for the interest portion of her mortgage repayments.
If the person concerned considers that her circumstances have changed and she wishes to re-apply for a mortgage interest supplement she should contact the community welfare officer at her local health centre so that an assessment of her current circumstances can be carried out.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:147 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the entitlement of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in respect of rent allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18976/04]
The South Western Area Health Board was contacted regarding this case and has advised that the amount of rent supplement in payment was determined in January 2004 on the basis of the income details furnished by the person concerned at that time.
Recently the board was made aware of changes in the person's financial circumstances and as a result a review of the case is currently being carried out in order to determine the appropriate amount of rent supplement payable.