Statement on behalf of the European Union by Ms Aleška Simkić, Deputy Permanent Representative of Slovenia to the United Nations
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Mr. Chairman,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union.
The Candidate Countries Turkey, Croatia* and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, the Countries of the Stabilisation and Association Process and potential candidates Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, as well as Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Armenia align themselves with this declaration.
Mr. Chairman,
The European Union would like to thank Ms. Marianne Brzak-Metzler, Chief of the Conditions of Service Section, for the presentation of the report of the Secretary General on the Comprehensive proposal on appropriate incentives to retain staff of the ICTR and ICTY, as well as to Ms. Susan McLurg, Chairperson of the ACABQ, for her presentation of the respective report of ACABQ.
The European Union underlines the importance we attach to the tribunals being able to function effectively throughout their completion phases. We acknowledge that there may be difficulties in retaining and recruiting staff, as the tribunals draw to a close. The European Union recognises that a well-targeted and multi-facetted retention incentive might be a useful tool for addressing these difficulties.
The report of the SG, however, falls short of providing complete answers to all questions raised in resolution 61/274. We will therefore seek further clarifications before taking a final decision on a possible retention package. In our assessment of the issue at hand, we will also be guided by the helpful comments and recommendations offered by the ACABQ
We look forward to work constructively with all partners.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
*Croatia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.
