Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 April 2012
77 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will actively support the peace process initiated by the United Nations Arab League Envoy, Kofi Annan in Syria. [19359/12]
View answerI wholeheartedly welcome and support the UN-Arab League Special Envoy Kofi Annan's peace plan. It offers the only realistic basis for resolving the current crisis in Syria and bringing the unacceptable violence to an end. Ireland's strong support for the Annan peace plan was clearly articulated at the meeting of the Friends of the Syrian People which took place in Istanbul on 1 April. I urge full implementation of the plan by all sides in Syria and a complete cessation of violence as mandated by the six point plan.
As called for by Special Envoy Annan, a ceasefire came into effect on 12 April. Regrettably, not all violence has ended and, in particular, there continue to be disturbing reports of the Syrian regime continuing offensive operations in the cities of Homs and Hama. I urge an immediate halt to offensive operations by the Syrian armed forces, a withdrawal of these forces to barracks and a complete halt to any use of heavy weaponry against urban population centres.
The Annan Plan needs to be implemented in all its aspects, if Syria is to emerge from this crisis and enter on a process of meaningful political reform and transition. I urge the Syrian authorities not only to halt the violence and withdraw troops to barracks but also to fulfil their other commitments under the plan, in allowing full humanitarian access, releasing all political detainees and allowing media operate freely throughout the country. The Syrian opposition, both within and outside of Syria, also has its responsibilities to end the violence and help facilitating a political process get underway. Once a complete and sustained ceasefire is in place, I hope all factions in Syria will be prepared and will be facilitated in engaging in serious and meaningful dialogue aimed at bringing about a political transition which addresses the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.
