Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:236 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views in the event of United Nations involvement in Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21445/03]
Written Answers. - Foreign Conflicts.
Members of the Security Council are currently discussing the possibility of adopting a resolution which would define a role for the United Nations in Iraq's transition to sovereignty and would also authorise the deployment to Iraq of a multinational force. Ireland wishes to see the restoration of Iraq to the international community under a representative government. This is in the interest of the entire international community. We would look to the Security Council to ensure that the United Nations is seen to maintain its proper role as acting on behalf of the entire international community. This is essential in relation both to the UN's ability to contribute to defusing the situation in Iraq and to the UN's future credibility. Ireland has consistently advocated a central role for the UN in the reconstruction of Iraq. The Security Council deserves Ireland's full support and that of the entire international community in its efforts to achieve those objectives. Ireland strongly encourages the Security Council in its work to agree on the way forward and we hope that a multinational force will be agreed.
If such a resolution is adopted, it is, of course, possible that Ireland would be one of the countries invited to participate in this force. At this stage, it is too early to comment meaningfully on the nature of, or conditions for, possible Irish participation in any such force, other than to point to the need for its authorisation by the Security Council. Should that condition be fulfilled and should Ireland be invited to participate in the force, the Government would consider the invitation in the normal manner.
Question No. 237 answered with Question No. 138.