Paul McGrath
Ceist:34 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide an update on the situation in Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10005/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 31 March 2004
Ceisteanna (50)
Freagraí scríofa
Security in Iraq remains bleak. I condemned the recent terrorist attacks that caused so many deaths and I reiterate my condemnation. They are an attempt to disrupt the process of restoring sovereignty and stability to Iraq. Recent attacks focused on vulnerable targets with a high risk of civilian casualties, including religious ceremonies, and tried to promote sectarian violence.
Recently there have been some positive political developments. On 8 March Iraq's governing council signed an interim constitution, The Transitional Administrative Law. It will be the supreme law of Iraq during the transition period. It sets out a number of key elements on issues such as religion, fundamental rights and the transitional system of government.
Following this, and in response to the UN Secretary General's report on the holding of elections, the Iraqi governing council invited the UN to assist with the transition process. In a letter dated 17 March it welcomed UN help with the formation of an interim Iraqi Government to which sovereignty will be transferred on 30 June. Preparations for direct elections will be held before the end of January 2005. Secretary-General Annan replied to the invitation saying that he asked his special adviser, Lakhdar Brahimi, and an electoral assistance team to return to Iraq as soon as possible to lend the advice and assistance required. On 24 March the Security Council adopted a presidential statement welcoming the missions of both teams and called on all parties in Iraq to give their co-operation and support.
I support the rapid transfer of power to a democratically elected Iraqi Government. I hope that agreement on the transitional administrative law will lead to the transfer of power to a sovereign Iraq. I welcome the invitation to the UN. A UN role in the transition process is an essential element in its success. I hope that the political transition process will lead to peace and stability in Iraq.