Economic sanctions against South Africa
Browne asks Ireland’s position on the UN request for sanctions. Lenihan says Ireland supports sanctions if they are universally agreed, arguing that partial sanctions would be ineffective and open to abuse; he confirms Ireland backs the African nations on that basis.
What position did we take up in the UN on the African nations' request that we should introduce economic sanctions against South Africa?
Comment on this
We have taken the stance that as far as economic sanctions are concerned that is a matter that will have to be resolved on a universal basis in order to be effective. It has been our consistent stance that unless we all come together on this it will not be effective. If there is a situation where some nations impose economic sanctions and some do not it is wide open to abuse.
Comment on this
Would the Minister answer my question? What position did we take up on the African nations' request for economic sanctions against South Africa?
Comment on this
Yes, if everybody agrees to apply them but heretofore that has not been the case. Unless there is agreement the sanctions will not be effective.