Niall Collins
Question:78. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the situation in Venezuela; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36854/18]
View answerFriday, 7 September 2018
Questions (78)
Written answers
Venezuela is currently experiencing the worst political, social, economic, and humanitarian crisis in its history. I am deeply concerned about the serious, volatile, and rapidly deteriorating situation which is increasingly affecting neighbouring countries, and countries in the region. I continue to urge the Government of Venezuela to engage in dialogue with the opposition, to respect the electoral calendar and to fully restore the country’s democratic institutions. This is essential to achieving a resolution to the crisis.
Reports of human rights violations are a cause of real concern. Freedom of speech and freedom of peaceful assembly are fundamental rights that are the bedrock of a functioning democracy, and I call on the Government of Venezuela to respect these rights. All parties must refrain from violence and work towards peaceful and democratic solutions.
The humanitarian crisis is acute, and Ireland is supportive of the EU’s funding for essential humanitarian aid in Venezuela and countries hosting Venezuelan refugees.
We are also supportive of EU sanctions on Venezuela introduced in June of this year. These sanctions are aimed at materials that can be used by the Government for internal repression, and create a legal framework for a travel ban and asset freeze against those who have shown blatant disregard for the rule of law and disrespect for democratic principles, including a number of Government officials.
While Ireland does not have a resident embassy in Caracas, the Embassy of Ireland in Mexico is responsible for our diplomatic relations with Venezuela and is monitoring the situation closely and is in contact with the EU Missions in Caracas. Officials from the Embassy, along with my officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Dublin, regularly engage with partner organisations on the ground, and at EU and international level.
I can assure the Deputy that Ireland will continue this engagement and that I am committed to working towards a peaceful and democratic resolution to this crisis.