Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 October 2019
83. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Spanish foreign minister spoke about Catalonia at the October 2109 General Affairs Council and Foreign Affairs Council meetings. [43557/19]
View answer86. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps he and his EU colleagues are taking in response to the imposition of lengthy prison sentences by the Spanish Supreme Court on nine leaders of the Catalan independence movement. [43765/19]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 86 together.
I am aware of the verdict of the Spanish Supreme Court to which the question refers and the reaction to the decision in Catalonia and the rest of Spain.
The question of Catalan independence remains a deeply divisive and contentious issue in Spain.
Given the importance we attach to respect for the separation of powers, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on a case ruled upon by the Spanish courts.
The constitutional and political arrangements in Spain are matters to be determined by its own citizens, through its democratic processes and institutions, in full respect of the rule of law. I want to reiterate Ireland's respect for the constitutional and territorial integrity of Spain.
The freedom to express contesting views is essential in any democracy, but differences of opinion must be contested with full respect for the law and the rights of all citizens. This is the foundation that underpins and protects modern democratic societies.
I maintain regular contact with my Spanish counterpart on a range of issues, including the situation in Catalonia.
Our Ambassador in Spain and officials at the Embassy also continue to monitor the situation closely, including in the context of travel advice provided to Irish citizens.
