I propose to take Questions Nos. 228 to 230, inclusive, 244 and 245 together.
In my responses of 5 and 10 May 2005 to written questions from the Deputy regarding these cases, I referred to the importance for the Colombian peace process of a comprehensive legal framework for the process of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of the illegal armed groups, based on the principles of truth, justice and reparation. These issues are addressed in the recently passed Columbian peace and justice law. That law provides an overall legal framework for demobilisation, disarmament and reintegration of illegal armed groups into society. The law, which was adopted through a lengthy democratic political process, strikes a difficult balance between peace and justice.
The General Affairs and External Relations Council of the European Union adopted conclusions on Colombia at its meeting on Monday 3 October 2005. Ireland was actively involved in the negotiation of these conclusions, which principally address the justice and peace law. The overall assessment of the Council was that, if implemented effectively and in a transparent manner, the law will have a positive effect on peace building in Colombia.
The conclusions address the need for a negotiated peace settlement and call for illegal armed groups to demobilise. They also call on all parties to the conflict to respect human rights and international humanitarian law and commend the work of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Colombia. The conclusions also confirm the readiness of the EU and its member states to assist the Colombian Government and civil society in providing support for communities affected by the internal conflict, victims groups, local reconciliation activities and the reinsertion and demobilisation of child soldiers.
I recently announced Ireland's commitment to contribute €390,000 over a three year period to the Organization of American States, OAS, peace and verification mission in Colombia. The mission's mandate is to provide comprehensive support to the Colombian peace process with a focus both on the demobilization process and on the strengthening of institutions concerned with the rule of law. Promoting and defending human rights and justice are guiding principles of the mission. Ireland will work closely with its colleagues in this mission, including in ensuring that human rights standards are maintained during the process.
Ireland was actively involved in negotiating the recent chairperson's statement on the situation of human rights in Colombia which was adopted on 22 April 2005 at the 61st session of the Commission on Human Rights in Geneva. The statement appeals to the government of Colombia increasingly to address the issue of impunity and to take action to improve the capacity and effectiveness of the judicial system and to take action where evidence of collusion with paramilitary forces is found.
My Department will continue to monitor the situation in Colombia, and particularly the implementation of the justice and peace law, through our embassy in Mexico City, as well as in cooperation with our EU partners with resident embassies in Colombia.
