State Papers: President Mary Robinson warned against taking up UN role in 1993

Tánaiste Dick Spring warned Mary Robinson taking on the UN position would create a 'functional' presidency, dividing her decisions into presidential and non-presidential roles.

Tánaiste and minister for foreign affairs Dick Spring warned president Mary Robinson in 1993 against accepting a United Nations role while still serving as president as it could lead to conflict with the Government.

The issue arose after Ms Robinson was invited to co-chair an international group tasked with assessing the UN’s role ahead of its 50th anniversary in 1995.