Seán Power
Question:91 Mr. Power asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will request the United Nations to send an independent team to China to investigate the treatment of children in State run orphanages. [1006/96]
Written Answers. - Chinese Orphanages.
Seán Haughey
Question:92 Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government's views in relation to conditions in the State run orphanages in China; if these views have been articulated at EU level or conveyed to the Government of China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1007/96]
Michael P. Kitt
Question:95 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the concerns, if any, expressed by his Department regarding the treatment of children in Chinese orphanages as shown recently on television; the plans, if any, he has to approach the EU on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1329/96]
I have conveyed to the Chinese authorities the deep concern of the Government at the recent allegations contained in the Channel Four programme "Return to the Dying Rooms" and also in the report by Human Rights Watch-Asia concerning practices of letting China's unwanted children die of starvation and abuse in State-run orphanages. I have made clear to them the deep sense of outrage which has been expressed by many Irish people at the practices described in the programme.
A visiting European Union troika mission, in which Ireland will participate, will raise the matter at meetings with the Chinese authorities in Beijing this week. A separate EU mission, in which Ireland will also participate, has requested a visit to the two orphanages in Shanghai which featured in the programme.
The Government is availing of all appropriate opportunities to pursue the matter in international fora. Minister of State Burton has been in contact with the EU Presidency and EU Commission to urge consideration of possible areas for technical co-operation and dialogue with the Chinese authorities including, for example, in the training of staff in orphanages. The Minister of State has also been in contact with the Executive Director of UNICEF. Minister of State Mitchell has drawn the issue of the orphanages to the attention of the Secretary-General of the Council of Europe.
I would also note that many Irish citizens have come forward with financial contributions or a willingness to assist in whatever way they can in regard to the plight of the children. We are endeavouring to make sure that this goodwill is channelled in the best possible way.