Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:22 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when he expects Ireland's turn as President of the Security Council to happen; and the priorities the Government has chosen for this period. [22339/00]
Written Answers. - Security Council.
Ireland will hold the Presidency of the Security Council in October 2001. The Presidency of the Security Council is held in turn by member states in the English alphabetical order of their names, each holding office for one month.
The priority for Ireland will be to manage the ongoing business of the Security Council effectively for the month and to ensure that the Council reacts speedily to crisis situations as and when they arise. The Presidency of the Security Council is, of course, an important opportunity for member states to bring their distinctive national qualities to bear on the issues facing the Council. The President represents the Council within the United Nations and to the outside world. In preparing for the Presidency, the Government will also consider whether the Council might debate issues of particular interest to Ireland which we could highlight in this unique forum.
Ireland's overall approach to Security Council membership will be guided by the principles we have upheld since joining the United Nations in 1955 and in this regard I refer the Deputy to my answer to the earlier priority question.