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EU Conventions

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 March 2013

Thursday, 28 March 2013

Questions (32)

Robert Troy

Question:

32. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised concerns regarding the series of constitutional changes initiated by Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban with his Hungarian counterpart; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15576/13]

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Written answers

My Hungarian counterpart János Martonyi has recently written to all EU Foreign Ministers informing them about changes to the Hungarian Constitution which were subsequently approved by the Hungarian Parliament.

The changes have prompted the European Commission and a number of Member States to express concern that the amendments are not compatible with the fundamental values and principles of the EU.

In a joint statement on 11 March, the President of the European Commission and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe noted the approval by the Hungarian Parliament of the changes and expressed regret that experts from the Commission and Council of Europe had not been afforded the opportunity to discuss the amendments with Hungarian officials before final approval. The European Commission will now conduct a detailed assessment of the amendments in its role as guardian of the Treaties.

Ireland supports the statement by President Barroso and Secretary General Jagland. All member states have committed, through the Treaties, to respect the rule of law and to ensure that their national laws comply with EU legislation and in this regard, I encourage the Hungarian Government to engage fully with the European Commission to ensure that Hungary meets its obligations with respect to the rule of law and respect for democratic principles and fundamental rights.

Question No. 33 answered with Question No. 29.
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