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Middle East Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 November 2013

Tuesday, 19 November 2013

Questions (149)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

149. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which the international community continues to monitor and encourage the administration in Iran towards democratisation; the extent to which events to date show hopeful signs of progress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49544/13]

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Written answers

The Iranian system cannot be considered a democracy in our terms, in that the people do not ultimately have full control of the system, and opposition voices are excluded from the system and in particular from contesting elections. Nonetheless, it should also be recognised that the Iranian people enjoy greater political participation than in many countries in the region, and that the Majlis, while open only to supporters of the system, is not merely a rubber stamp assembly.In the recent Presidential election, while the people were not offered a free choice of candidates, it is clear that President Rouhani was the popular choice for President, and holds a clear mandate. President Rouhani has come to office with a commitment to greater openness and respect for human rights. In terms of delivery, these are early days, and the new administration is heavily committed to an attempt to make progress on the nuclear issue. We need also to remain aware that there are other political forces in Iran, many of whom may be highly resistant to change. We will be observing closely what happens in Iran, and trying where we can to encourage positive change.

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