Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

The Minister of State correctly mentioned that one of the weaknesses of the UN policy on elections is members must request international observers. Zimbabwe has signed up to that policy on the conduct of elections. It is an issue because countries are concerned it may impinge on their sovereignty. Does the Minister of State agree Ireland can play a lead role in strengthening the policy? It has been in place since 1990 and more than 100 requests have been made by different countries. International assistance has been provided at elections on between 300 and 400 occasions. There should be confidence in these missions. For example, international observers were present during the 2004 presidential election in America. There is confidence in the system and Ireland could play a lead role at the UN General Assembly in strengthening that policy.

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