asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the Government have protested to the Indonesian Government over its occupation of East Timor; and if he will make a statement on the Government's policy in this matter.
Written Answers. - Policy on East Timor.
63.
The question of East Timor is currently on the agenda of the United Nations and the Secretary-General of the United Nations is providing his good offices in order to assist in resolving this problem. Ireland takes the view that the issue of East Timor is best resolved by negotiations between the countries directly concerned under the auspices of the Secretary-General. As recently as 26 September 1989, Ireland and our partners in the Twelve expressed support at the United Nations General Assembly for the contacts between Portugal and Indonesia under the auspices of the Secretary-General. The Government hopes that early progress will lead to a just and comprehensive settlement, accepted internationally, with full respect for the interests of the population of East Timor. Government policy on East Timor has been expressed directly to the Indonesian authorities on a number of occasions.