Statement by the Tánaiste condemning North Korean nuclear test

“I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the test by North Korea of a nuclear explosive device.  This action threatens peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.  It is also a major challenge to our efforts to advance global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, a longstanding priority of Irish foreign policy.  

Nuclear weapons are never a means to guarantee peace and security; far from it, they pose the greatest threat of all. 

The regime in Pyongyang must realise that today’s act is reckless and provocative and will only isolate it further from the international community. 

North Korea must cease all nuclear testing and re-engage with the Six Party Talks on the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, immediately and without pre-conditions.  The North Korean government must comply fully with all of its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and its agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Today’s events highlight the urgency for the immediate entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).    I call on the eight remaining states whose ratification of the Treaty is required to do so without delay.  

While the CTBT has not yet entered into force, it represents an overwhelming international consensus against nuclear weapons testing that Ireland and others have a duty to protect.  I expect all nations – including North Korea – to respect this international consensus.”