Human Rights Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2013

Tuesday, 2 July 2013

Questions (165)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

165. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has made any representations to federal authorities in Bosnia in relation to the ongoing political stalemate regarding the issue of identity cards which has meant every child born since February is not legally recognised as existing under law; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that such political stalemate has meant the death of a three month old child due to delay in treatment sought in Serbia but who could not travel without the relevant documents as the child was not recognisable under law; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that currently another child seeks treatment which is delayed due to the inability to retrieve a passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31736/13]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

As I stated in this House on 26 June, I am aware of failure of the national Parliament of Bosnia and Herzegovina to adopt a law on the Unique Master Citizen Number (JMBG), which is required for Bosnian citizens to exercise certain rights such as having access to health insurance and identity documents. This has had the consequence that as of 12 February newborn Bosnian citizens cannot get a JMBG. I am also aware of the tragic death of baby Berina Hamidovic, and send my heartfelt condolences to her family. This failure to legislate for the express good of the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina is deplorable, and I call on the Parliament to act to rapidly adopt this important legislation. The Bosnian Parliament is fully responsible for handling this matter and it is an issue that must be solved at State level.