Minister Noel Treacy, T.D. to represent Government at Srebrenica Commemoration

The Minister for European Affairs, Mr. Noel Treacy, TD, will represent the Government at the ceremonies to mark the 10th anniversary of the Srebrenica massacre, which will be held in Bosnia tomorrow  (11th July).  Political leaders from all the countries of the Western Balkans will join international representatives in Srebrenica on Monday morning in memory of the 8,000 men and boys who were killed and buried in mass graves in the week after the fall of Srebrenica on 11 July 1995.  During his visit, the Minister will also meet with members of the Defence Forces serving with the EU Peacekeeping Force and with members of the Garda Siochana serving with the EU Police Mission.

Speaking on his departure for Sarajevo this evening, the Minister said:

“It is important that Ireland be represented at the ceremonies to mark the 10th anniversary of one of the most terrible atrocities committed in Europe since the end of the Second World War.  The people of Ireland responded strongly to the suffering of the Bosnian people during the war in the 1990s, and members of the Defence Forces and the Garda continue to play their part in the EU-led missions to consolidate peace and security in the country. 

It is essential that we remember the victims of the conflict and, in particular, that the international community maintains its determination to bring to justice the political and military leaders directly responsible for the Srebrenica massacre.  I welcome the courageous decision of the leaders of Serbia and Montenegro to attend Monday's ceremonies.  I hope that their presence will help contribute to the process of reconciliation in the Western Balkans.

The EU is a community of values, founded on the principles of reconciliation and justice.  Our strong message to the people of Bosnia, and of the other countries of the region, is that we will continue to support you as you work to reform your societies after a decade of terrible conflict.  The EU remains firm in its long term commitment to a peaceful and prosperous European future for the people of the Western Balkans”, stated Minister Treacy.

ENDS+++
10 July 2005