Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 56: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent elections in Ukraine; the prospects for the future governance of this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13116/06]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 288: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which the international community can encourage the democratic process in the Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13454/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 288 together.

As I made clear in a statement issued on 27 March, I am greatly encouraged by the findings of the OSCE's international election observer mission on the parliamentary elections in Ukraine. The mission found that the elections of 26 March further consolidated the democratic breakthrough that began less than a year and a half ago in Ukraine and that, overall, fundamental civil and political rights were respected. An inclusive candidate registration process and a vibrant media environment provided for genuine competition in conditions of equality, enabling voters to express their will freely and fairly. The OSCE-ODIHR mission was one of the largest in the region in recent times, with more than 900 observers. Ireland contributed nine observers, including one Member of this house, Deputy Perry.

I congratulate the President, the Government and the people of Ukraine on the freest and fairest elections since their country's independence. As the EU has noted, their achievement set a new and very welcome standard for elections in the region as a whole.

It would be premature to comment on prospects for the future governance of Ukraine. Following the country's democratic elections, Ireland and the EU will co-operate with whatever government is formed in Kiev. We all hope that a majority-backed government will be formed soon and we expect it to confirm and maintain the democratic achievements of the past 15 months.

The House will be aware that the Our Ukraine party of President Yushchenko lost ground in the elections while the Party of Regions of his former rival for the Presidency, Viktor Yanukovich, became the largest grouping. However, other pro-reform parties either held or substantially increased their vote, making the combined strength of the constituent elements of the former Orange coalition greater than that of the non-Orange parties. The make up of a new government is now a matter for negotiation between the various party leaders and no possible combination can be ruled out at this stage.

Ireland and the European Union look forward to working towards a deeper partnership with Ukraine, one that is built on shared values as expressed in the quality of Ukraine's democracy. As long as Ukraine adheres to the path of political and economic reform, it can count on our support and assistance. Continuing implementation of the action plan under the European neighbourhood policy agreed with Ukraine in February 2005 is vital.