UN only way to deal with Iraq, says Cox

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT President Pat Cox yesterday voiced his opposition to any unilateral action against Iraq, as he was named European of the Year 2002.

The Munster MEP was yesterday declared the winner of the annual award by the European Movement for his outstanding achievements as the first Irish president of the European Parliament, as well as his campaigning in favour of a Yes vote during last year’s Nice Treaty referendum.

Mr Cox used the occasion to issue a veiled attack against any unilateral action by the US and Britain against Saddam Hussein, describing the UN as “the rock” upon which any solution must be based. He opposed other proposals being suggested in the absence of a new UN resolution.

“In conscience, I could not support some of the things being contemplated,” said Mr Cox. “The UN is the heart and soul of any way forward.”

Accepting the award, Mr Cox predicted the manner in which the international community dealt with the Iraq crisis would have a lasting influence on the conduct of international public policy for decades.

He also criticised those who questioned the enlargement of the EU, a reference to the recent rebuke of several EU candidate countries by French president, Jacques Chirac over their support of the US position on Iraq.

“There are no new pre-conditions,” said Mr Cox.

The 50-year-old former TD, lecturer and journalist, who was accompanied by his wife Cathy, said he felt passionate about the promotion of Europe as a community of values that was "not just about the market but something much deeper”.

Mr Cox received his award from Taoiseach Bertie Ahern at a function in Dublin attended by senior politicians, diplomats and business leaders.

The Taoiseach described Mr Cox “as a man who has succeeded in every arena he has entered: lecturing, broadcasting and politics.

“A Limerick man who could persuade the people of Cork to elect him to the Dáil is clearly capable of overcoming any political obstacle,” joked Mr Ahern. The Taoiseach said he was looking forward to working closely with Mr Cox when Ireland holds the EU presidency next January.

Other nominees for this year’s award were Dr Garret FitzGerald, Senator Maurice Hayes, Gemma Hussey, Noel Dorr and Joanna Crooks.