Vol. 485 No. 1
22 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support a ban on trade, tourism and investment lines with Burma; his views on recent institutional changes in Burma; his further views on the continued harassment of its lawfully elected leader, Sung San Sun Kyi; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22355/97]
On 28 October 1996, under the Irish Presidency, the European Union adopted a Common Position in respect of its relations with Burma. In view of its concerns at the absence of progress towards democratisation and at the continuing violation of human rights, the European Union decided at that time to expel all military personnel attached to Burmese diplomatic missions in member states and to place an embargo on all exports of arms, munitions and military equipment to Burma; in addition, entry visas were denied to all senior military and Government personnel. These restrictions remain in place.
Ireland is among a number of EU member states which would favour increased restrictions being imposed in order to bring further pressure to bear on the Burmese regime. This was made clear at the General Affairs Council held in Brussels on 6 October this year. We shall continue to seek agreement from partners for the adoption of such measures.
