Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 December 2017
77. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the EU continues to monitor and encourage the positive and democratic process in the western Balkans; the degree to which each country there complies with the acquis communautaire in line with EU requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53490/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are four countries in the Western Balkans with candidate status – Albania, the Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina are potential candidates.
The EU, including Ireland, continues to monitor closely the progress of these countries in the implementation of reforms required to align with the acquis communautaire. Ireland places a strong emphasis on the need for the requirements of the aquis to be fulfilled by applicants, including on the human rights and rule of law issues that are essential for a functioning democracy. We support candidates in their efforts to achieve the required standards.
The incoming Bulgarian Presidency of the EU has indicated that the Western Balkans will be a priority of their presidency, culminating in a summit in Sofia in May 2018. In the meantime, the European Commission will publish a strategy for enlargement and ‘state of play’ reports on each of the individual countries, which will be assessed by the working groups of the European Union and will be discussed by Ministers at the General Affairs Council in the New Year.
As a strong supporter of the accession process, which we view as a transformative driver for stability, peace and democracy, Ireland looks forward to seeing a renewed focus on this region in the coming months, and supports all efforts to enhance regional relationships and institutional reform.
