Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 21: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the status of the peace process in Nepal. [4338/07]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The peace process in Nepal has made significant progress since the restoration of Parliament and accountable Government, following a decision by King Gyanendra of Nepal, in response to public protests, to restore executive power last April. This was followed by the signature of a Comprehensive Peace Accord between the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoists) on 21 November 2006, which stated the commitment of both parties to transforming the existing ceasefire into a permanent and sustainable peace.

I welcome the adoption on 15 January 2007 of an interim constitution and the establishment of an interim legislature, with the participation of the Maoists. The interim Parliament will oversee the working of the interim Government and the holding of elections for a Constituent Assembly, planned for June 2007. I would encourage all sides to engage actively in carrying on the work towards representative elections.

On 23 January 2007 the UN Security Council established a United Nations Political Mission in Nepal with a mandate to monitor the ceasefire and assist in the election of a Constituent Assembly. The Mission is also tasked with monitoring the management of arms and armed personnel of both sides through a Joint Monitoring Coordinating Committee. The EU is also considering sending an EU Election Observation Mission to Nepal.

While Nepal has made remarkable progress towards peace, challenges remain and disturbances continue in the south of the country. Ireland and the EU will continue to support the peace process in Nepal and the United Nation's role in assisting in the electoral and arms management process and will urge the Government of Nepal to ensure the peace process is inclusive.