Statements and Speeches by Ministry Representatives 2006

Plenary EOV for Adoption of Resolution A/C.5/60/L.37/Rev.1 on "Investing in the United Nations"

CANZ statement by HE Rosemary Banks, NZ Permanent Representative, on behalf of Canada, Australia and New Zealand, 8 May 2006

On behalf of Canada, Australia and New Zealand I wish to briefly explain our vote against resolution (A/C.5/60/L.37/Rev.1).  We have set out our concerns, over both procedure and substance, when action was taken in the Fifth Committee on Friday 28 April.  I do not intend to repeat those here, though our objections remain unchanged and we would repeat our hope expressed then that the Secretary General will proceed with the mandate he already has.   

We were deeply disappointed that despite efforts to avoid this, the tabling of a draft resolution on which there was clearly no consensus went ahead in the Fifth Committee, leaving CANZ no option but to vote against this.   

We strongly believe that the practice of consensus decision-making in the Fifth Committee should be restored, and the climate of trust resumed. 

On a positive note, it is heartening that over the last few days and weeks, so many have spoken of the need to look forward and direct our efforts to producing as much progress as we can over the coming weeks.  Ambassador Kumalo has just now reaffirmed that commitment on behalf of the G77 and China and we welcome those comments.  To renew our efforts is now the challenge for all of us. 

CANZ will continue to work with the Secretary General and Member States on management reform.

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