Vol. 572 No. 5
90 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself that the recent presidential election in Chechnya was free and fair; if he has further satisfied himself that the March 2003 referendum on Chechen independence was free and fair; and the Government's general views on the Russian policy towards Chechnya. [23677/03]
Beginning with the adoption of a new constitution for Chechnya in March 2003, the Russian Federation has made a concerted effort to build the basis of a new political system in the republic.
A technical mission from the OSCE's Office of Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, ODIHR, which travelled to Chechnya in the context of the constitutional referendum in March 2003, did not issue a final statement on how the referendum was conducted. However, while irregularities were acknowledged, its overall impression could be described as positive. The mission was impressed, in particular, that so many people turned out to vote despite the ongoing difficult security situation in Chechnya.
On the basis of the March 2003 constitution, a presidential election took place in Chechnya on 5 October 2003. Neither the OSCE nor the Council of Europe monitored the election.
On 26 September, the EU Presidency, on behalf of the Union, issued a statement on the election, expressing its concern at "the indications of intimidation of candidates" as well as "allegations of manipulation of the electoral process". The Presidency recalled the importance of independent media in ensuring a free and fair election. Following the election, the EU issued a further statement on 9 October, noting again "the lack of real pluralism of candidatures for the presidency" and the absence of independent media, as well as expressing serious concerns regarding the conditions in which the elections were held.
Ireland fully supports the terms of these declarations. We are not confident that the election on 5 October met international standards. In this, it represents a missed opportunity.
The Government recognises the territorial integrity of the Russian Federation. We acknowledge the right and responsibility of the Russian Government to oppose terrorism and crime, and to protect its citizens. In this context, I strongly condemn the terrorist bomb attacks, which have caused significant loss of life in Chechnya and in neighbouring republics in recent months. However, the fight against terrorism, in the Russian Federation as elsewhere, must be conducted in accordance with internationally accepted human rights standards. Unfortunately, as I have often noted in this House, there continue to be credible reports of human rights violations committed by Russian troops against Chechen civilians. Such occurrences can only hinder prospects for long-term peace and reconciliation. I can only encourage the Russian Government to intensify the efforts it has made to eliminate such incidents and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
91 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the performance of the administration of Iraq by the US occupation force's Coalition Provisional Authority; and his main concerns in this regard. [23678/03]
It is clear that the Coalition Provisional Authority continues to face serious difficulties in the administration of Iraq. I outlined the Government's concerns on Iraq to this House when answering Question No. 104 of 1 October. This remains the Government's position. I hope that the Security Council will be able to agree a resolution which will help to advance the objectives of the international community regarding Iraq.
