Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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Question 95: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in relation to the continuing struggles for independence of the Sahara Arab people; the assistance Ireland has offered or will offer in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25245/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Government has consistently been a strong supporter of the right to self-determination of the Saharawi people. Ireland played a prominent role in seeking a solution to the Western Sahara dispute during its term on the UN Security Council. The Government has remained closely engaged with the issue, particularly in discussions at EU level and at the United Nations.

Although there has been little progress towards its implementation, the Government continues to believe that the Baker II plan, which was recommended to the parties by the UN Security Council in July 2003, represents the best framework yet presented for a negotiated settlement. The plan envisages a preparatory phase under UN supervision, leading to a referendum to determine the future of the territory. It is clear that a genuine exercise of the right of self-determination must include independence as one possible outcome, but the Government has no views on what the outcome should be. This is a matter for the Saharawi people. The Government strongly supports the continuing role of the UN in working to bring the parties towards an agreement, under the Special Representative of the Secretary General, Mr. Peter Van Walsum.