Written Answers. - Foreign Conflicts.
Ivor Callely
Ceist:
119
Mr. Callely
asked the
Minister for Foreign Affairs
his views on the current situation in Sudan; the stability and democratic values that exist; the likely developments in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[26449/00]
The Government remains deeply concerned at the ongoing civil war in Sudan and the enormous humanitarian impact it is having on the Sudanese people. We regret the continued disregard for democratic principles, basic human rights and the rule of law evident in the country. We have raised our concerns on many occasions, both in public and privately.
We attach great importance to efforts to achieve a permanent ceasefire in the civil war and the negotiation of a comprehensive and lasting political settlement. Ireland is an active member of the International Partners' Forum of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development and was represented at the IGAD Summit in Khar toum last week. Through our participation in this and other fora, we will continue to fully support and encourage efforts to bring about progress in the peace talks, and to reaffirm the importance of a constructive dialogue aimed at developing stability and co-operation in the country itself, as well as in the wider region.
Together with our EU partners, we have welcomed the steps towards normalisation of bilateral relations between Sudan and its neighbours and we look forward to further steps to enhance the prospects of peace, stability and co-operation in the region. In November 1999, the EU renewed its dialogue with the Government of Sudan. With our EU partners, we are monitoring closely progress in the national reconciliation process and internal developments, including the issue of self-determination for the people of the south.
We have appealed to the warring parties to comply with the principles of international humanitarian law, particularly those relating to the safety of UN personnel, as laid down in the convention of 9 December 1994, and to free access for NGOs to civilian populations in distress. In 1999 the Irish Government contributed £1,085,000 in emergency assistance to Sudan. This funding was channelled through the International Rescue Committee, UNICEF, the International Red Cross, Oxfam, Concern and GOAL. To date this year a total of £702,032 has been allocated.
The Government has been consistent in its support for the people of Sudan in recent years. This support will continue. However, we fully recognize that humanitarian assistance cannot be a substitute for an inclusive political solution. Such a solution will require full observance of the principles of democracy, good governance, human rights and the rule of law throughout Sudan, regardless of ethnicity, gender or religion. We will continue to raise our concerns and to offer our support for such a solution through our contacts with the Government of Sudan and other governments in the region.
