Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Mar 1998

Vol. 489 No. 1

Written Answers. - Human Rights Abuses.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

92 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether there is a human rights crisis in Colombia, where extrajudicial executions, disappearances and torture are widespread and gross massive human rights violations continue to be carried out by members of the armed forces, the police, paramilitary and guerrilla groups; and whether he supports the extension of the mandate of the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights which expires in April 1998. [7598/98]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

The appalling record on human rights in Colombia is of serious concern to Ireland and our partners in the European Union. The human rights crisis continues to worsen as the long running armed conflict intensifies.

Both nationally, and in concert with our partners, Ireland has made clear its deep concerns about human rights in Colombia.

As regard the extension of the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Bogota, this matter will come up at the current meeting of the UN Commission on Human Rights in Geneva. Ireland will support the extension of the mandate of this office.