Robinson gets backing for UN post

The Irish cabinet yesterday confirmed that it will propose President Mary Robinson (left) for the vacant post of United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights.

Mrs Robinson said last week that she would not seek re-election when her seven-year term as Irish President ends at the end of this year. She formally announced her candidacy during a visit to the UN War Crimes Tribunal in the Hague this week. On Monday the Taoiseach, John Bruton, canvassed American support for her during St Patrick's Day meetings in Washington with President Bill Clinton and Vice-President Al Gore. Alan Murdoch