Minister for Foreign Affairs Welcomes the UN Security Council’s Authorisation of a Peacekeeping Mission for Darfur

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern T.D., today warmly welcomed the adoption by the UN Security Council of Resolution 1769, which authorises the deployment of a hybrid African Union-UN mission of over 26,000 military and police personnel in the Darfur region of Sudan.

The Minister said:

“I warmly welcome this significant step forward in international efforts to relieve the suffering of the people of Darfur. This issue is of the highest priority for me personally, including given that during my visit to Darfur I saw the tragic situation on the ground at first hand. I hope that the adoption of the UN resolution is a sign that international efforts and pressure are beginning to bear fruit. Darfur is a particularly challenging environment, but I hope that the deployment of what will be the largest peacekeeping mission in the world will bring tangible improvements in the protection of civilians and ensuring humanitarian aid deliveries.

“The deployment of UNAMID should create a breathing space which will allow the foundations of a lasting peace to be laid, and I strongly support the current efforts of the African Union and United Nations special envoys in this regard. A political solution is the only way to bring a permanent end to this conflict.

“It is estimated that more than 200,000 people died as a result of this conflict since 2003, and more than two million people have been forced to flee their homes. The people of Darfur have already waited far too long for increased security.

“It is important that Sudan has indicated that it will co-operate with UN and African Union peacekeepers in Darfur. I strongly urge the Government of Sudan to give the UN, the AU, and all humanitarian actors, all the support they need.”

Background Note

Since 2006, Irish Aid has provided total of over €16.8 million in emergency and recovery assistance to Sudan, in addition to funding of €5 million for the African Union Mission in Sudan. Over €3 million has been provided to Darfur so far in 2007.