Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023
602. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department will respond to concerns relating to an agreement between Morocco and an Israeli energy company (details supplied) for natural gas exploration in the territorial waters of Western Sahara; and if this theft of Western Sahara’s natural resources will be highlighted with the Moroccan and Israeli ambassadors. [63453/22]
View answerAs per the UN position, Ireland recognises Western Sahara as a non-self-governing territory. Under international law, the economic resources of a non-self-governing territory may only be exploited for the benefit of the people of the territory, on their behalf, or in consultation with their representatives. Any exploration and exploitation activities that proceed in disregard of the interests and wishes of the people would be in violation of the principles of international law applicable to natural resource activities in non-self-governing territories.
Ireland does not have a role in any commercial agreement between the parties in this case.
Ireland’s position on Western Sahara is clear, including to our international partners. Our long-standing policy is one of support for United Nations Security Council Resolutions on self-determination for the people of Western Sahara. We do not have a view on the outcome of a decision on the future of the territory, as long as it is decided peacefully and in a genuine exercise of self-determination. During our term on the United Nations Security Council, Ireland consistently reiterated this position.
