Ireland has always been a firm supporter of the right to self-determination of the people of the Western Sahara and the Irish Government remains firmly committed to this principal. When the process on the new agreement began and the Commission was seeking a mandate, Ireland sought that any agreement should be more transparent and should include clearer geographic reporting on the benefits of the Agreement in the Western Sahara.
Ireland considers that the new agreement addresses concerns raised. We welcome the introduction of provisions to the Protocol on the planning and reporting duties of Morocco in respect of the regional distribution of funds, especially with regard to the expected economic and social benefits and the geographical distribution of these benefits.
Ireland has joined with like minded Member States, and has asked the Commission to inform the Council comprehensively and regularly on the returns received by the West Saharan population as a result of the agreement. It must be ensured that the West Saharan Sahrawi population is also given an appropriate stake, and a stake that is in line with their interests, in the financial resources ensuing from the agreement. The EU Commission has also advised that it considered that the agreements is consistent with the reform of the external dimension of the EU Common Fisheries Policy in that it places strong emphasis on scientific advice, economic profitability, good governance and respect of international law. EU Fishing activity is restricted to the surplus resources in all fisheries thus ensuring sustainability of the fish stocks.
Ireland joined with Germany and Austria in a Statement emphasising the importance of having regard to human rights & self determination in terms of the implementation of the agreement. The European Parliament voted on Tuesday on the Conclusion of the Protocol with 310 votes in favour, 204 votes against, 49 abstentions. It is expected that the Protocol will be adopted by Council in the near future.
