asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs why Ireland has not yet either signed or ratified the United Nations Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and its Optional Protocol which was adopted by the Assembly in 1966; whether there is any objection to or difficulty in signing or ratifying; if not, the reason for the delay; if he will indicate any domestic legislation which may be in conflict with that Covenant; and if he will make a statement in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Civil and Political Rights.
12.
The question of signature of the Covenant is under active consideration at present. Ratification would require legislation in certain sectors including, in particular, legislation prohibiting discrimination on any ground, which would take some time to enact.
Signature and ratification of the Optional Protocol will be considered once this country has become Party to the Covenant.
Would the Minister not agree that four years is too long a time to have delayed in the ratification of such an important instrument? Would the Minister agree that it is highly desirable that this State should be in the forefront of the nations of the world in subscribing to such an important Covenant to protect fundamental rights and freedoms?
It is under active consideration at the present time.