Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I am grateful to the Minister of State. I am particularly pleased that he outlined Ireland's position and its proposals on the reform of the Security Council. It could be inferred from his reply that Ireland may be part of an enlarged Security Council of between 20 and 25 members. This issue lay at the heart of my contribution because of Ireland's long-standing and important contribution to the United Nations.

I hope the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs will follow the example of Prime Minister Tony Blair in supporting the continued role of the United Nations Secretary General, Kofi Annan, against threats from certain right-wing elements in the United States Congress who are calling for his resignation. If Mr. Annan's position was threatened in any way, it would be a disaster for the United Nations, particularly small countries.