IRISH RESPONSE TO OSCE CHAIRMANSHIP - THANKS, BUT

C O N F I D E N T I A L DUBLIN 001135

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: DECL: 07/29/2014
TAGS: PREL OSCE
SUBJECT: IRISH RESPONSE TO OSCE CHAIRMANSHIP - THANKS, BUT
NO THANKS

REF: STATE 162851

Classified By: DCM Jane B. Fort per 1.4 (b) and (d)


1. (C)During a farewell call on July 28 to DFA Secretary
General Dermott Gallagher, DCM raised reftel points regarding
GOI's possible bid for the OSCE Chairmanship in 2007.
Gallagher stated the GOI seriously considered becoming a
candidate, but decided against it primarily due to the
general election in mid-2007 in which most Irish senior
government officials (notably the foreign minister) will be
involved in campaigning. Gallagher stated that Ireland would
consider a future bid at a later time, but a 2007 bid has
been ruled out at the most senior level.


2. (C)Comment: The 2007 election dominates GOI concerns
after Fianna Fail's (Ahern's party) pasting in the June local
elections. In the cabinet re-shuffle expected in
mid-September, Foreign Minster Cowen is rumored to be slated
for Minister of Finance. Should this happen, it is possible
a new FM would be more agreeable to a 2007 bid. Post will
follow-up as appropriate. End Comment.
KENNY