Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 June 2018
53. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if it is possible through the aegis of the EU or the UN to motivate the global community into treating refugees, whether political or economic, in a manner which is respectful of their status and dignity and in keeping with international human rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28029/18]
View answerThe UN Refugee Agency reported on 19 June that the number of refugees and displaced persons worldwide reached in excess of 65 million in 2017, increasing at a rate of one person every two seconds. Most of these people are hosted in developing countries, such as Uganda or Ethiopia. Many also try to come to Europe. The European Union has been striving to put in place a better managed migration system. While joint EU efforts have continued to show results, the situation remains fragile.
Ireland plays an important role in efforts to bring the international community together behind a more humane and coordinated response to migration.
In 2016 we co-facilitated the unanimous adoption of the New York Declaration by the Member States of the United Nations. This committed the world community to putting in place two Global Compacts by the end of this year – one on refugees and one on migration. Ireland is actively engaged in the negotiations for both these Compacts, advocating strongly - including within the EU - for an approach which places the dignity and human rights of all people on the move at the centre of our response. Any approach or solution needs to be comprehensive, addressing all aspects of the issue, from the causes of mass exodus to the responses necessary to cover the range of refugee situations.
Ireland also provides significant support through our aid programme to, amongst others, the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which is charged with upholding the rights of refugees and asylum seekers under international law and with providing essential humanitarian assistance. In addition, the Irish Naval Service helps save lives through its actions to assist those who get into difficulty trying to cross the Mediterranean.
