Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 January 2018
40. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of his Department's work in securing a seat for Ireland on the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member for the 2021 to 2022 term in view of Ireland's contribution to UN peacekeeping; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3563/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is seeking election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in June 2020 for the 2021-2022 term. We are one of three candidates for the two seats available to members of the Western European and Others regional group at the United Nations. Canada and Norway are the other two candidates. In order to be elected to the Security Council, Ireland will need to secure the support of two-thirds of the UN membership – approximately 129 votes of the 193 Member States.The UN provides the foundation of an orderly, rules-based international system, which is essential for a small and globally trading country like Ireland. We have a responsibility to participate to the fullest extent possible in the work of the UN, and it is in our interests to do so. By advocating for its role and values we are promoting our own values and interests. The Security Council is the body which mandates peacekeeping missions and sets the policies that UN troops must follow in the field. Over 1,000 Irish men and women serve each year under UN mandated peace support operations, representing our people and our values. Membership of the Security Council would be a valuable opportunity for Ireland to influence decisions which will affect the conditions and circumstances under which the members of our Defence Forces are deployed.
Security Council membership would also give us an avenue to influence initiatives on conflict prevention, a priority area for Ireland, where we have called for increased investment and a stronger role for women in the maintenance of international peace and security.
Other policy areas of growing influence on international peace and security include migration, climate change, sustainable development and food security. Additionally, the link between youth, peace and security is increasingly recognised as an area of importance and one which the Security Council will need to address in a comprehensive way.
The campaign leading up to the 2020 election is already well under way. While the House will understand that I cannot provide specific information on bilateral contacts which are being made in relation to Ireland’s candidature, I am using every opportunity to press the value of Ireland playing our role on the Council. In addition, my Department’s diplomatic staff in Ireland, our Permanent Representation to the UN in New York, and our entire Embassy network have been actively presenting our case and seeking support.
Ireland’s strong and sustained record of participation in UN peacekeeping operations is being emphasised as part of our campaign for election to the Security Council. Irish troops have been on duty for the UN since 1958, sixty years ago this year. We are Europe’s largest per capita contributor of troops to UN peacekeeping operations. Our peacekeepers have played a key role in enhancing Ireland’s international reputation through their work for the UN. Our commitment to building peace, as a small island nation with our own troubled history, resonates with many UN member states. We understand the complexities of conflict, and seek to share our own lived experience of addressing it.
Ireland’s previous terms on the Security Council have provided an opportunity to give firm practical expression to the principles underlying Irish foreign policy. These principles are widely held across the Oireachtas. A strong campaign will be required to secure election in 2020. Should we succeed, our election will allow Ireland to again bring our values of peace, justice and human rights to bear in directing the work of the Security Council.
