Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. I know the value of having observers as I was one with the EU group in Cambodia some years ago and it was very important. The Minister of State mentioned the enormous scale of the elections, which I accept. All Irish aid to Ethiopia, whether for the public works scheme or the scheme aimed at reducing malnutrition, is very valuable but with 47% of the population living under the poverty line, it is a huge task.

When I was in Cambodia with the EU delegation, we met the EU ambassadors at an early stage so they could give us assistance in reading the situation in the different regions. I went to Kampong Chhnang. I understand severe restrictions have been placed on a number of European Union embassies in regard to travel in Ethiopia. That is a severe disability not only for the embassies, but for the observer missions from the different European Union countries. I understand one of the leaders of the opposition, I believe the leader of Unity for Democracy and Justice, has been recommitted to prison, which is very difficult.

There is a gap of approximately three weeks between the polling day and the announcement of the results. What will happen during that period? Will the African innovation which has happened in recent times of posting the turnout outside the polling station take place in Ethiopia? Will it be available to the observers?

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