asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline any action taken by the Government expressing our repugnance in relation to the Berlin Wall, the enforced division of that city and the imprisonment of the people of East Berlin wishing to leave; and the action he is taking to resolve this crisis.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Berlin Wall.
20.
The Government have not taken any specific action in relation to the Berlin Wall. This is an issue which touches on matters which are more properly the responsibility of the four occupying powers and the concern of the Federal Republic of Germany. Ireland, however, is working, through our participation in the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe (CSCE) process, to overcome the post-war divisions in Europe, of which, unfortunately, the Berlin Wall remains a symbol.
I consider the CSCE the most appropriate forum in which to raise the kind of concerns addressed by the Deputy. Irish delegations to CSCE meetings, such as the current follow-up meeting in Vienna avail themselves of all appropriate opportunities to express our concerns at violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms. These include restrictions placed on the right of individuals freely to leave and return to their own country.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that the erection of the Berlin Wall and its existence is proof positive of the total failure of communism? If communism were successful they should be building a wall to keep people out of East Germany rather than to keep their own people in.
That is why the Irish are let into the United States, I suppose.
The Deputy does not believe that.
Does the Taoiseach not think it is hypocritical of this country to impose sanctions on South Africa and to refuse to buy their apples and oranges and, at the same time, trade with international terrorists such as Libya?
What has this to do with Question No. 20?
It has to do with the Russian——
The Berlin Wall is the subject matter of this question.
Is the Taoiseach aware of the events in East Germany in Berlin the other evening when journalists were prodded by electrical gadgets? Some might say that is too good for them, but does the Taoiseach deplore that attitude?
We seem to be having an extension of this question.
The efforts of all right minded people at present should be mobilised in support of what the super powers are trying to achieve, a lessening of tension and disarmament. The world, and Europe, is a much better and safer place today than it was this time last year as a result of the efforts of the two world leaders I have mentioned.
The time has come to deal with questions nominated for priority.