Foreign Conflicts

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 September 2017

Thursday, 21 September 2017

Questions (101)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

101. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position with regard to the release of women and girls captured by the Boko Haram or Al Shabab in their respective regions; the number of women and girls still not released; if sufficient measures are being taken to prevent reoccurrences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40085/17]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

The Government has consistently condemned the acts of violence being perpetrated by both Al Shabab and Boko Haram, which remain a threat to the peace, stability, and prosperity of Somalia and Nigeria respectively, and neighbouring countries. The brutal activities of these groups have resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions more. They also involve the clear and persistent abuse of human rights, especially of women and girls. While it is difficult to identify the exact numbers of women and girls being held captive by Boko Haram, in recent months the Government of Nigeria has made substantial progress against the group. In 2014 over 200 girls known as the ‘Chibok girls’ were kidnapped by Boko Haram in Borno State in the north-east of Nigeria. Varying numbers of girls have been released at different times, with the largest number freed in May 2017. However over 100 remain unaccounted for.

Ireland, with our EU partners, has continued to support the Nigerian Government in its efforts, and reiterated the need for a regional approach to ensuring that those in captivity are released, and to prevent future occurrences. The EU has pledged up to €50 million in support of the Multinational Joint Taskforce, which supports Nigeria and neighbouring countries promotion of regional security.

The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), is tasked with supporting peacebuilding and state-building in the country. The EU contributes funding to the mission to reduce the threat posed by Al Shabab.

Ireland continues to monitor developments in relation to both Al Shabab and Boko Haram, and to work with the relevant Governments, regional authorities and other key partners to address the humanitarian crisis through diplomatic engagement and humanitarian funding. To date in 2017 Ireland has provided €5.7 million in humanitarian assistance to Somalia, while €5.2 million has been provided to Nigeria and the Lake Chad Region.