Vol. 512 No. 2
71 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action, if any, he has taken or proposes to take in regard to reports (details supplied) that the US and Britain are seeking the dismissal of the UN humanitarian co-ordinator in Baghdad due to his public statements on the debilitating effects of nine years of UN sanctions on Iraq; and his views on these sanctions and their effects. [22496/99]
I am aware of the reports concerning the UN humanitarian co-ordinator in Iraq, Mr. Hans Von Sponeck, and understand that the UN Secretary General, Mr Kofi Annan, has asked him to remain in his post. We would take the view that continuity in the exercise of this important function is highly desirable.
Ireland and the EU fully support the UN Security Council in demanding full compliance by the Government of Iraq with the terms of its resolutions, which require the verification of the elimination of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction. Compliance with these resolutions will make it possible for the entire issue of sanctions against Iraq to be addressed.
I am very concerned at the serious humanitarian situation in Iraq, and earnestly hope that a successful outcome to the current intensive round of negotiations in the Security Council will result in the lifting of the sanctions.
