John Bruton
Ceist:196 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the application of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Armenia, Azarbaijan and Monaco to join the Council of Europe. [17372/99]
Vol. 508 No. 1
196 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the application of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Armenia, Azarbaijan and Monaco to join the Council of Europe. [17372/99]
Enlargement of the Council of Europe based on democratic institutions and human rights is an essential element in the reconstruction of Europe. In April this year Georgia was admitted as the 41st member state. Ireland would welcome the further enlargement of the council in order to achieve the goal of an inclusive democratic Europe. While enlargement should be inclusive, it should not be unconditional. Ireland hopes that the remaining applicant countries will bring their institutions and legislation into line with the requirements of the Council of Europe and resolve any conflicts between them so that they may be able to join at the earliest opportunity.