John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 36: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on Zimbabwe; if the international community is positive about the formation of a unity Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21868/09]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The formation of a unity government in Zimbabwe in February was far from being a solution to Zimbabwe's problems, but was nonetheless a sign of some limited progress in the political process. Three months on, there have been some improvements in the situation on the ground in Zimbabwe, notably in curbing hyperinflation and adopting the South African rand as the reference currency. However, the political situation remains very fragile, and I am gravely concerned by reports of continuing human rights violations, arbitrary arrests, torture of prisoners and abuse of the rule of law. The lack of real progress on many issues vital to Zimbabwe's recovery and the failure to reform media laws to allow for meaningful press freedom are causes of ongoing concern.

Among the many challenges facing the unity government is the continued failure of President Mugabe to address the issue of senior government appointments in a manner consistent with the September 2008 power-sharing agreement. Most notably, the retention of Gideon Gono as Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is detrimental to the interests of the country. The removal of Gono, whose abject mismanagement of the economy is blamed for Zimbabwe's collapse into financial ruin, is vital to build confidence among donors and among the international investors which Zimbabwe will need to contribute to its economic recovery.

The international community has stated its willingness to support the economic and social recovery of Zimbabwe, however re-engagement with the Zimbabwean government remains conditional on it meeting key benchmarks in respect of political reform, consistent with the goals set out in the power-sharing agreement. These agreed goals include full access to humanitarian assistance, restoration of the rule of law, commitment to the democratic process, respect for human rights and commitment to macro-economic stabilisation. The international community remains seized of the situation in Zimbabwe, and is monitoring the developments closely.

Ireland has worked closely with our EU partners in developing a consistent approach to Zimbabwe, and we have repeatedly stated our willingness to re-engage with a Zimbabwean government which returns to respect for human rights, the rule of law and sound economic management. Ireland and the EU will continue to monitor the situation, and maintain contacts with key African partners, including the African Union and the Southern African Development Community. It is clear that Zimbabwe's neighbours have a critical role to play in encouraging reform, and can bring the greatest influence to bear in achieving progress in implementing the power sharing agreement.

In keeping with other international donors, Ireland does not provide funding to the Zimbabwean government, but responds to the humanitarian needs of the Zimbabwean people through support for the work of multilateral and non-governmental organisations. Thus far in 2009, Ireland has committed funding of over €5 million to a range of humanitarian programmes in Zimbabwe, focused on food security, tackling HIV and AIDS and supporting civil society organisations providing essential services for the population.

It is vital for the future of Zimbabwe that the unity government delivers on the promise of reform, and secures for Zimbabwe's people real political freedoms, a return to the rule of law and economic development. Ireland will continue to work with our partners in the international community to encourage progress in these areas.