asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the Government are still concerned about the denial of fundamental civil rights in Chile; and, if so, when and how the Government last communicated that concern to the Chilean authorities.
Written Answers. - Abuses of Fundamental Rights in Chile.
18.
In common with our partners in the European Community Ireland continues to be concerned about the abuses of civil, political and human rights in Chile. As the Deputy will be aware Ireland does not have formal diplomatic relations with Chile but we participate fully in the monitoring of the situation in that country by our Community partners and we associate ourselves with Community statements and representations to the Chilean authorities from time to time. For instance, Community Foreign Ministers issued a statement on 10 September last welcoming the "National accord for the return to full democracy" and on 15 October made representations to the Chilean authorities expressing concern at the arrest of union leaders following days of protest organised by the opposition on 5-6 September. In conjunction with the other member states we continue to examine complaints of specific abuses in Chile and take the action required in each case.