Irish lawmakers aligned with the Polisario Front are intensifying efforts to persuade their government to recognize the so-called «SADR». This was reflected in a written question by MP Conor D. McGuinness to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, inquiring about Dublin's relations with the Polisario and whether «the Government recognises the Polisario Front as interlocutors for the Sahrawi people; and if this Government will commit to recognising a sovereign Sahrawi state». In response, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Defense, Simon Harris, reiterated Ireland's full support for the UN-led process. «It is our hope that these efforts will help achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara», he stated. He further emphasized that, in line with the UN Security Council resolution of October 31, 2024, he urged all parties, along with the international community, to support the UN Secretary-General's personal envoy in his diplomatic efforts. He also backed the resolution's call for full cooperation with MINURSO in fulfilling its mandate. Harris concluded by affirming that the Irish government engages with relevant regional actors, including the Polisario Front, and considers the group a stakeholder in the ongoing conflict. Notably, former Irish Foreign Minister Michael Martin revealed on February 27, 2024, in response to parliamentary questions from deputies Chris Andrews and Patrick Costello, that officials from his department met with Polisario representatives on February 14 to discuss the situation in Western Sahara. Polisario leader Brahim Ghali visited Ireland on February 14-15, 2024. While he met with President Michael D. Higgins—whose role is largely ceremonial—he was unable to secure meetings with any Irish ministers.
