Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:305 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he has influenced policy on the Iraqi crisis through the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4744/03]
Written Answers - Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Ireland has made a significant contribution to the shaping of EU policy on the crisis in Iraq, including through the agreement arrived at by the European Council on 17 February 2003. The Government was pleased with the consensus set out in the conclusions of that meeting, which stated again the European Union objective of full and effective Iraqi disarmament and the desire to achieve this peacefully. This position reflected the policy which the Government have been advocating since this crisis began.
The members of the European Union in their consideration of this crisis take full account of the deep public concerns about the possibility of conflict. Every European Union government is anxious to avoid war. A united approach in the Security Council and in the European Union offers the best prospect of success in convincing Saddam Hussein of the need to comply with his obligations.