Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 May 2018
67. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his position on the campaign for a United Nations parliamentary assembly; when a parliamentary assembly will be inaugurated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20595/18]
View answerSince joining the United Nations in 1955, Ireland has been strongly committed to the values and principles of the UN Charter.
As a steadfast supporter of the UN, Ireland continues to advocate, through a range of fora, for reform of the UN’s structures and systems to best equip the organisation to respond to the many and interlinked global challenges of the twenty first century. Ireland is committed, in this context, to consider proposals seeking to improve the effectiveness of the UN and the contribution it can make to the peace, stability and development of all nations.
In this regard, I have noted proposals for the establishment of a United Nations Parliamentary Assembly. Ireland remains open minded on the concept of such an assembly.
I believe that any proposals for a UN Parliamentary Assembly should add value to the multilateral governance system and, importantly, have broad support among the UN membership.
Ireland will consider how best to engage on this proposal, and other efforts at reform of UN institutions, as the concept of a UN Parliamentary Assembly progresses.
