Jackie Cahill
Question:115. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to recent events in Georgia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20584/24]
View answerThursday, 9 May 2024
Questions (115)
Written answers
Ireland welcomed the decision of the European Council to grant candidate status to Georgia in December 2023, on the basis that nine further steps, detailed in the European Commission’s Enlargement Report, are undertaken by the Georgian government.
However, I am concerned by ongoing political polarisation in Georgia and particularly by the actions taken by the Georgian government that are not in line with European norms and values, and which run contrary to Georgia’s stated European aspirations.
The reintroduction of the Foreign Agents law, as well the announcement that legislation targeting the LGBTQI+ population will be introduced, are very concerning developments, and are not compatible with Georgia’s wish for membership of the European Union.
Ireland has made clear our concerns at the reintroduction of this legislation. In a statement on 23 April, the Department of Foreign Affairs publicly expressed concern at the reintroduction of the draft law, and urged Georgia to return to the path of European integration.
In a further statement on 1 May, Ireland echoed concerns shared by the European Union and condemned the disproportionate use of force by the Georgian authorities against protesters peacefully demonstrating against the reintroduction of the bill. Freedom of expression, and of peaceful assembly, must be respected.
At a meeting on the margins of the General Affairs Council last week, Ireland, along with our European partners also made clear our concerns directly to Georgia.
The European Union is a union based on values. The best way to secure Georgia’s progress towards European Union membership is by demonstrating a genuine commitment to European values and to the human rights of all citizens. It is clear that the majority of Georgian people support Georgia’s path towards further European integration. Ireland will continue to urge the Georgian government to respect their views, and to fully align with EU standards and values.