Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 6

Written Answers. - Algerian Conflict.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

29 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government's position on the continuing violence in Algeria; the steps, if any, being taken to secure an end to the conflict; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8945/99]

Nora Owen

Question:

36 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the ongoing situation in Algeria. [8866/99]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 36 together.

I remain very concerned at the situation in Algeria. While the incidence of atrocities is now decreasing somewhat, conflict is continuing between the security forces and militant opponents of the regime with a resulting serious loss of life among civilians.

The best way of securing an end to the conflict is the rapid development of a democratic and pluralist Algeria, based on the rule of law, with an accountable government ruling in an open and transparent manner. I am hopeful that the Presidential election campaign, which is under way, will pave the way for further reform. While the process is not flawless – not all political parties are free to take part – the campaign is relatively open with no less than five candidates. It is generally accepted that they reflect a broad range of political opinion.

A second way of assisting the democratic elements in Algerian society is through increased contact with the outside world. I am glad to note in this context the visit of members of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs, who visited Algeria from 22 to 24 February and met representatives of various Algerian political parties. I am confident these discussions were to the mutual benefit of both sides.

On the international level I regret to note the Algerian Government is still refusing to allow UN rapporteurs on human rights issues to visit the country. This non-co-operation with UN human rights machinery has been strongly criticised. I will ensure that the European Union will expressly address this point, and our deep concern over reports of involuntary disappearances, arbitrary detention and torture of detainees, during the current session of the Commission on Human Rights in Geneva.

On a bilateral level, Ireland has continued to raise the questions of human rights, including torture and disappearances, directly with the Algerian authorities and has called on them to address and remedy these violations. I will continue to take an active interest in the matter of human rights in Algeria.