Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Nov 1991

Vol. 413 No. 1

Written Answers. - Vietnamese Refugees.

John Bruton

Question:

50 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to media reports (details supplied) to the effect that Vietnamese refugees were forcibly drugged by Hong Kong authorities to assist in their deportation back to Vietnam; and if the Government has any view on the use of such methods to repatriate refugees.

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Collins)

The Governments of the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Vietnam reached an agreement on 29 October on the return to Vietnam of Vietnamese currently in Hong Kong, under procedures agreed with the United Nations High Commissioner For Refugees.

The agreement is viewed as a major step in the full implementation of the Comprehensive Plan for Action (CPA) for Indochinese Refugees. Of particular importance is the confirmation by the Vietnamese Government that no illegal immigrant who returns to Vietnam will face persecution and that the Government will continue to facilitate the monitoring of those who return by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and others, to ensure that these guarantees are fully respected.

I have seen the report referred to by the Deputy. I would certainly be concerned if the repatriation process were not handled with the greatest sensitivity and respect for the dignity of the individuals involved.