US embassy cable - 04DUBLIN1135

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