Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Mar 1993

Vol. 428 No. 1

Written Answers. - Unlawful Detention of Burmese Leader.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

119 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will do everything possible to highlight the unlawful detention of a Burmese leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner (details supplied); and if he will initiate action in the EC and UN to heighten international pressure for her release.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

Ireland has condemned and made clear its opposition to the continuing detention of the Nobel Peace Prize winner, Aung San Suu Kyi, by the SLORC regime in Burma. Within the European Community we have played an active role in calling for an end to her detention and in working to have her released.

Since her detention began in 1989, together with our partners, we have repeatedly highlighted this issue at every appropriate opportunity, most especially at the United Nations.

As recently as 10 March, a resolution on the human rights situation in Burma, co-sponsored by the Community, was adopted by consensus at the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in Geneva. The resolution called on the Burmese Government to release Aung San Suu Kyi unconditionally.

In a statement issued on 12 March the Twelve welcomed the adoption of the resolution and urged the Government of Burma to accelerate the process towards democracy and restore full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Ireland will continue to avail of every opportunity to highlight this matter internationally.