UNCLAS DUBLIN 001695

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: MARR PREL UNFICYP
SUBJECT: PEACEKEEPING IN CYPRUS, IRELAND IN WAIT AND SEE
MODE

REF: STATE 241068


1. Emboff, drawing on reftel points, spoke on November 15 to
UN Desk Officer at the DFA, Eoin Duggan. Duggan said that
Ireland will not initially look to contribute additional
funds or personnel to UNFICYP. He said that Ireland has a
strong record of support for peacekeeping efforts, dating
back to 30 years of personnel, logistics and financial
contributions. He added that the GOI is in a "wait and see"
mode with regards to Cyprus, and will bear in mind any EU or
EU member states' consideration of support, but will not be
the first to offer more financial contribution.


2. According to Duggan, Ireland currently has 19 civilian
police and 2 military officers participating in UNFICYP. He
said that the Irish see that the situation in Cyprus is such
that an increase in the number of military troops is no
longer needed, and the current level of support is
satisfactory.
KENNY