Ireland and the other member states of the European Union are firmly of the view that the lifting of the embargo would facilitate an opening of the island’s economy to the benefit of its people. In addition, we and our EU partners are not persuaded that the continued embargo is contributing in a positive way to the democratic transition in Cuba.
Ireland’s concerns about economic, commercial and financial measures against Cuba, which are contrary to commonly accepted rules of international trade, are long-standing and clear. We object to unilaterally imposed measures that impede the economic and commercial relations of EU member states with Cuba.
Accordingly Ireland, and the other EU member states, support resolutions at the UN General Assembly that record opposition to the embargo, most recently last month on the 28th of October.
The resolution also recognised the continued EU concerns and criticisms regarding governance and human rights in Cuba. It was noted that while the US embargo has a damaging effect on the Cuban economy, domestic Cuban economic policy seriously hampers its own economic development. The resolution urged that the package of economic and social reforms adopted by the Cuban Parliament in August 2011 be extended and implemented in a manner that will address the key concerns of the Cuban population. I urge the Cuban authorities to bring about real improvements in all areas mentioned, and to grant its citizens internationally recognised civil, political and economic rights and freedoms.
I am aware of the case of to which the Deputy refers of the Cuban citizens imprisoned in the US. As this is a bilateral consular issue between the US and the Cuban authorities, the Government have no standing in the matter.
