Tuesday, 6 Oct 2020

Written Answers Nos. 108-127

International Sanctions

Questions (108)

John Brady

Question:

108. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the response by Ireland to attempts by the United States of America to reimpose sanctions on Iran. [28451/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

In recent months, the United States have taken a number of different steps to reimpose sanctions on Iran.

In August, the US announced its intention to impose "snapback" of UN sanctions against Iran, in response to Iran's breaches of the nuclear agreement, the JCPOA. The US asserted that this triggered a 30 day period for reimposition of UN sanctions.

However, I note that the US announced its withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018. President Trump’s memorandum of 8 May 2018 formalised this position, and since then, the United States Government has consistently taken steps to end its participation in the JCPOA. Consequently, the US is no longer a “JCPOA participant state.” Accordingly, the US triggering of snapback is incapable of having legal effect.

It also flows from this that any actions or outcomes based on the US declaration of “snapback” would also be devoid of legal effect. This is a view shared by all the remaining participants in the agreement, the EU, and the majority of the Members of the Security Council.

The UN Secretary General also wrote to the President of the Security Council to note that he was not in a position to take any action on the US notification.

In addition to its approach at the UN, the US has is also imposing unilateral sanctions on Iran. This is a sovereign decision for the US. However, we are concerned by the unilateral imposition of sanctions, which could harm efforts to preserve the JCPOA, and ultimately damage peace and stability in the region.

Ireland remains committed to the JCPOA, which remains the best available mechanism for preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Ireland is deeply concerned by Iranian breaches of the JCPOA, and calls on it to come swiftly back into full compliance with the agreement. We will continue to work with partners to preserve and advance the agreement.

Undocumented Irish in the USA

Questions (109, 133)

Brendan Smith

Question:

109. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he had discussions during his recent visit to the United States on the difficulties facing the undocumented Irish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28450/20]

Denis Naughten

Question:

133. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made to date on resolving the issue of undocumented Irish persons in the United States of America; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28422/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 109 and 133 together.

The status of the undocumented Irish in the US has been a high priority for successive Governments and continues to be one of my key priorities. Immigration issues have been raised on an ongoing basis in our engagement with the US Administration and political leaders, including by the Taoiseach during calls to members of the US Administration. I have also raised immigration issues in my recent contacts with Special Envoy Mick Mulvaney, with the US Ambassador, and with members of the US Administration and both Houses of Congress on my visit to Washington D.C. last week.

In the US, our Embassy and Consulates General across the country continue to monitor the situation closely and to engage with US officials on immigration issues, including with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They also actively support Irish community groups that provide support and information to vulnerable Irish and the undocumented. Many of these community groups are members of the Coalition of Irish Immigration Centres, which receives significant annual funding through the Government’s Emigrant Support Programme for their work.

In 2019, over €3m ($3.7m) was allocated to 76 organisations across the US, including those that provide front-line welfare assistance to Irish citizens. Furthermore, in response to the pandemic, a dedicated COVID-19 Response Fund for Irish Communities Abroad was set up to help these organisations meet the needs of those who are particularly vulnerable. Over the past four months, Minister Brophy and I have met virtually with many of these organisations and heard first-hand of the challenges faced by our diaspora, and the valuable support these organisations are providing.

While comprehensive immigration reform is a complex and sensitive political issue in the US at present, our Embassy and our Consulates General across the United States will continue to monitor the situation and stand ready to engage with any Federal and State initiatives on this issue.

In terms of securing future pathways for immigration, we continue to prioritise the E3 visa Bill and hope to see it pass through Congress at the earliest opportunity.

Foreign Policy

Questions (110)

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Question:

110. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps Ireland and the EU have taken to address the ongoing instability in Yemen; his plans to increase Irish Aid funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28460/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Yemen remains the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, driven by conflict, economic collapse and the breakdown of public institutions and services.

Ireland and the EU fully support the efforts of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, to bring about a political resolution to the conflict in Yemen. In particular, I welcome efforts made towards a Joint Declaration between the Government of Yemen and the Houthis which would commit the parties to a nationwide ceasefire, bring forward a number of economic and humanitarian measures, and resume a political process.

We note the recent announcement on prisoner exchange, which is an important confidence building step. However, despite the Special Envoy’s efforts over the last months, agreement has still not been reached, and we encourage all parties to the conflict to redouble efforts towards securing a ceasefire.

Ireland is deeply concerned by the level of humanitarian suffering in Yemen, and has provided over €27 million in humanitarian aid to Yemen since 2015, including €5 million in 2020. As a member of the EU, Ireland also contributes to the EU response to the crisis in Yemen. Since the beginning of the conflict in 2015, the EU has allocated €484 million in humanitarian aid.

We also remain deeply concerned at the ongoing conduct of the conflict. The recent report of the Group of Eminent Experts on Yemen highlights a consistent record of violations of IHL and human rights law. We condemn the indiscriminate attacks by the Houthis, including against Saudi Arabia. We continue to call on all parties to the conflict to uphold their obligations under International Humanitarian Law.

Ireland calls again on the parties to the conflict to continue their engagement with the Special Envoy with a view to agreeing a declaration and ceasefire that will be in the best interests of the people of Yemen.

Foreign Policy

Questions (111)

John Brady

Question:

111. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to the ongoing persecution of Kurdish activists by the Turkish Government. [28453/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Government is aware of and very concerned about the detention of 82 executives of the opposition party HDP on 25 September. Among the detained are seven former HDP MPs, including the current Mayor of Kars, and some of whom have serious health issues. These arrests apparently relate to protests which took place in 2014.

The strong suspicion is that these latest arrests are politically motivated and an attempt to marginalise and isolate the opposition. Hundreds of local politicians and elected officeholders and thousands of members of the HDP have been detained on terrorism-related charges since the local elections in March 2019, and investigations have been launched against other mayors.

Ireland is clear that arrests and legal proceedings should not be used for political reasons as they seriously undermine the proper functioning of local democracy. The Turkish Government needs to ensure that its actions are in accordance with the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms. The detention of thousands of members of opposition parties on terrorism-related charges raises serious concerns regarding Turkey’s backsliding in fundamental areas as expressed on numerous occasions, in the European Commission’s annual reports as well as in European Council Conclusions.

On the wider Kurdish issue, it is clear that this can only be addressed through dialogue aiming at establishing a peaceful, comprehensive, and sustainable solution. Ireland has called for the resumption of such a dialogue to allow the political process to resume. We continue to support efforts to maintain contacts between Kurdish community representatives and the Turkish authorities through our funding of the Democratic Progress Institute’s Turkey Programme.

The Government will continue to closely monitor developments in Turkey both in terms of these detentions, and in terms of the wider picture regarding human rights, freedom of expression, the rule of law, and democracy.

Brexit Issues

Questions (112, 114, 143, 144, 145)

Sorca Clarke

Question:

112. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to contact Mr. Michel Barnier and his UK counterpart in view of recent statements on Brexit from the UK Government. [23760/20]

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

114. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he expects the European Commission to take legal action against the UK over its internal market Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28479/20]

Ruairí Ó Murchú

Question:

143. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the plans that have been given consideration to ensure no infrastructure or checks are placed along the Border; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28476/20]

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

144. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the representations he has made to foreign governments to build pressure on the Government of the United Kingdom to fulfil its commitments to the Brexit withdrawal agreement and to safeguard the Good Friday Agreement. [25600/20]

Ruairí Ó Murchú

Question:

145. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the recent and upcoming political engagements he has had internationally on the Brexit withdrawal agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28477/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 112, 114 and 143 to 145, inclusive, together.

It is vital that the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland be implemented in full and in good faith.

The publication and passage through the House of Commons of the UK Internal Market Bill in September caused grave concern. The Bill, in its current form, undermines the Withdrawal Agreement and the Protocol. Any unilateral departure from the terms of the Agreement is not acceptable and seriously damages trust in Northern Ireland, and between the EU and the UK. The suggestions that the UK’s unilateral approach is designed to protect the Good Friday Agreement were of particular concern. The Protocol itself is specifically designed to protect the Good Friday Agreement and the gains of the peace process, including avoiding a hard border on the island of Ireland.

The Taoiseach raised our concerns directly with the British Prime Minister on the day the Bill was published. He and I have discussed these issues with a range of interlocutors including Commission President von der Leyen, Commission Vice President Šefcovic and the EU's chief negotiator, Mr Michel Barnier. The Government has remained in close contact with our EU partners on this issue over recent weeks.

The Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement met on Thursday 10 September and Monday 28 September. The Joint Committee, and Specialised Committee, are the appropriate channels for considering issues around the implementation of the Protocol. However, they cannot be used to renegotiate the Protocol.

At these meetings, Ireland set out clearly our concerns. Commission Vice President Šefcovic urged the British Government to remove the problematic measures from the Bill by the end of September. Ireland, together with the EU, also sent a clear message, on the need for the UK to restore trust and to accelerate its work to implement the Protocol in all its aspects.

On 1 October the Commission sent the UK a letter of notice for breaching obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement. This marks the beginning of a formal infringement process against the United Kingdom. We continue to urge the British Government to work to repair the severely damaged trust between the EU and UK.

As Deputies will be aware, I have also discussed this issue with Special Envoy Mick Mulvaney during his visit to Dublin. I also visited Washington DC last week, and discussed the issues with Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Congressman Richard Neal. Each reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Good Friday Agreement.

Throughout the Brexit process, I have maintained close contacts with leaders in Northern Ireland. I welcome that the EU and UK are engaging closely on relevant implementation issues to find appropriate and agreed solutions, which should fall within the framework of the agreed Protocol.

Despite noise and setbacks, this Government’s focus remains on implementation - in full and in good faith - of the Withdrawal Agreement and the Protocol, and on achieving a successful conclusion to the future relationship negotiations.

Diplomatic Representation

Questions (113)

Neale Richmond

Question:

113. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans there to extend Ireland’s diplomatic footprint through the EU and the world in order to forge new alliances post Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27752/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

“Global Ireland – Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025", sets out the Government’s ambitions for expanding and deepening our international presence. It includes the expansion of Ireland’s Mission Network which will deepen our impact across priority regions, provide opportunities to grow our trade and inward investment, strengthen political relationships with our partners, promote our values, and support Irish citizens and our diaspora abroad. A deepened footprint will also enable us to better shape and influence international events in our interests.

My Department plans to open 26 new Diplomatic Missions over the lifetime of Global Ireland. Since its launch in 2018, my Department has been working closely with the Department of the Taoiseach and a range of other Government partners to ensure effective delivery.

To date we have opened new Embassies in Wellington, Bogotá, Amman, Monrovia and Santiago de Chile, and new Consulates General in Vancouver, Mumbai, Cardiff, Frankfurt and Los Angeles. Our efforts continue including through the planned opening of new Embassies in Kyiv, Manila and Rabat. These locations have been chosen based on a range of factors, including their potential to diversify our markets, to grow trade and investment with Ireland, and to enable Irish companies to better take advantage of new opportunities.

A critical component of the Global Ireland programme is identifying new opportunities to diversify our markets in a post-Brexit world. Global Ireland 2025 will support efforts to grow and diversify export markets, inward investment and tourism, as Brexit becomes a reality. It will ensure that Ireland is better positioned to build the alliances necessary to advance its interests and defend its positions in a post-Brexit EU, while also helping to secure our deep and positive relationship with the UK and its constituent parts into the future.

Ireland has a long-standing policy of maintaining Embassies in all EU Member States. This policy has been of incalculable benefit to our country since the UK made the decision to leave the European Union. With this in mind, we will also continue to strengthen our teams in EU Member States, assigning additional resources as necessary.

In considering any further expansion of the diplomatic network, a range of factors will be taken into account including our national, political, economic and trade priorities, as well as the availability of resources.

Question No. 114 answered with Question No. 112.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (115)

Paul McAuliffe

Question:

115. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans for a colour-coded common travel agreement within the EU in respect of foreign travel during Covid-19. [28428/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

On September 4, the European Commission issued a proposal on a co-ordinated approach to travel restrictions within Europe in response to COVID-19. The German Presidency has been leading intensive negotiations in Brussels at official level on the proposal.

One of the measures under discussion is the introduction of a traffic light system under which countries and regions within the EU and EEA would be classified in terms of COVID-19 risk.

The factors used to calculate risk remain to be agreed. They are likely to include, at a minimum, the prevailing 14-day COVID incidence rate per 100,000; the percentage of recent positive COVID-19 tests from the area; and the number of tests being carried out by area. The respective thresholds for each of these criteria, to determine which areas are of higher or lower risk, remains subject to agreement.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control will be mandated with producing the necessary data on a weekly basis, setting out which areas are at higher or lower risk by way of traffic-light style colour-coded mapping.

The data and mapping are likely to be produced at sub-national regional levels. Accordingly, Member States may then apply their respective protective measures targeted with regard to higher-risk sub-national regions, rather than whole countries. Although not yet agreed, it appears likely that it will remain with Member States to decide what protective measures to apply, in accordance with respective national competences.

The Presidency is according major priority to this issue. As set out in the National Plan for Living with COVID-19, Ireland has made clear its broad support for the Commission proposal and our intention to align with the new arrangements, once agreed.

Human Rights

Questions (116, 140)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

116. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has discussed with his counterparts across Europe, with the Chinese Government and-or with the Chinese Ambassador the human rights abuses in respect of the Uighir people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28546/20]

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

140. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason Ireland has been quiet on the human rights abuses against the Uighur Muslim population by the Chinese Government; and if the treatment of the Uighur people will be condemned by way of a statement in Dáil Éireann. [25416/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 140 together.

This is an issue of serious concern, as was underlined last week by the series of worrying reports on Xinjiang. Ireland has not been quiet on this matter, and I have spoken in this House about our concerns regarding the situation in Xinjiang on numerous occasions.

We, along with our EU partners, remain deeply concerned about the credible reports regarding restrictions on freedom of religion and belief, arbitrary detention, widespread surveillance, forced labour, and forced sterilisations and birth control in the region.

Ireland has been vocal about raising this issue, along with other partners in the international community. In our national statement at the UN Human Rights Council on 25 September, Ireland reiterated our deep concern regarding the treatment of ethnic Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang, and urged China to allow unrestricted access to the region for the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

At EU level, the deterioration of the human rights situation, including the treatment of minorities in Xinjiang, was raised by EU leaders with China on 14 September, and it was agreed to discuss these issues further at an EU-China Human Rights Dialogue in Beijing later this year. The matter was also raised during the EU-China Summit on the 22 June.

Prior to this, Ireland was also one of 27 States to support a Joint Statement at the UN Human Rights Council on 30 June 2020, which also called on the High Commissioner to provide regular information about the situation in the region, in order to safeguard the rights and freedoms that are guaranteed under international law.

This week, Ireland is supporting a Joint Statement at the UN Third Committee which reiterates our grave concern regarding the situation in Xinjiang, and recalls the exceptional letter of concern issued by 50 UN Special Procedures mandate holders which called on China to respect human rights and to allow immediate, meaningful and unfettered access to Xinjiang for independent observers.

Ireland has previously supported a Joint Statement at the UN Third Committee in October 2019, and a Joint Letter at the UN Human Rights Council in July 2019, which called for the Chinese Government to urgently implement eight recommendations made by the Committee for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination related to Xinjiang, and to uphold its international obligations and respect human rights in Xinjiang.

The protection and promotion of human rights is a core pillar of Ireland's foreign policy, and Ireland will continue to monitor and assess the situation and, along with our EU partners, engage with Chinese authorities bilaterally and in multilateral fora as appropriate.

Question No. 117 answered with Question No. 101.

Foreign Conflicts

Questions (118, 126)

John Brady

Question:

118. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on reports of escalating violence between Armenia and Azerbaijan. [28454/20]

Paul Murphy

Question:

126. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of Ireland on the ongoing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28445/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 118 and 126 together.

I am deeply concerned by the recent clashes in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, in particular along the line of contact, which have regrettably led to the loss of life and severe injury, including civilian casualties.

Ireland joins those calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to the negotiating table, and we welcome and support the Statements of the EU through High Representative Borrell and the OSCE Minsk Co-Chairs calling for this.

I welcome the expression of support by Security Council Members for Secretary-General Guterres’s call for an immediate halt to the fighting, and for the central role of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs. Ireland will continue to support these efforts, including when we join the United Nations Security Council in January of next year.

Ireland urges both sides to de-escalate tensions by refraining from inflammatory rhetoric and strictly observing the ceasefire. Only through negotiation, can there be a sustainable resolution and eventual reconciliation. The road to a peaceful resolution can be long and complex, as Ireland knows well, but progress grows from dialogue. Ireland fully supports the Minsk Process and we thank both the High Representative and the Co-Chairs Group for their efforts to de-escalate tensions over recent months.

We will continue to monitor this evolving situation closely.

Brexit Issues

Questions (119)

Rose Conway-Walsh

Question:

119. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of securing the movement of higher education students, staff and research funding between the two jurisdictions on the island of Ireland in the wake of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28466/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Common Travel Area (CTA) will continue to facilitate the movement of staff and students between higher education institutions on the island of Ireland after the end of the Brexit transition period. Under the CTA, Irish and British citizens can move freely and reside in either jurisdiction and enjoy associated rights and entitlements including access to employment, education and social benefits. Irish citizens can live, work and study in the UK on the same basis as British citizens, and vice versa.

Ireland and the UK signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2019 reaffirming their commitment to maintaining the CTA in all circumstances. The CTA was also recognised in the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland.

Irish officials continue to work with their UK counterparts to ensure that the interests and reciprocal rights of our respective citizens are maintained and safeguarded by the CTA. It is also important to note the Government is proposing legislation to ensure that SUSI grants will continue to be available on the same basis as now.

I welcome the resumption of North South Ministerial Council meetings, bringing the Irish Government and Northern Ireland Executive together to oversee ongoing North South work and further develop cooperation, as provided for under the Good Friday Agreement. The Government has consistently affirmed its unwavering commitment to North South co-operation across all sectors, including all-island engagement on education, research and innovation. This involves fostering collaboration and encouraging those involved in research to take advantage of the opportunities available.

Higher education institutions have a key role in North South collaborative research across the island and in undertaking research which results in innovation and leads to economic growth. Everything possible must be done to ensure that this cooperation continues to grow and strengthen. The Government remains committed to keeping the island of Ireland at the forefront of global research and innovation.

EU Migration Crisis

Questions (120, 124, 134)

John Lahart

Question:

120. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the developing situation at the Moria refugee camp on the Greek island of Lesbos; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28491/20]

Cormac Devlin

Question:

124. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the humanitarian crisis developing at the Moria camp on the Greek island of Lesbos; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28355/20]

Catherine Connolly

Question:

134. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the details of engagements he has had with the Minister for Justice on finding long-term solutions to support persons affected by the fire in the Moria refugee camp in Greece; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28458/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 120, 124 and 134 together.

I am deeply saddened by the fire at the Moria camp on Lesbos and the impact this has had on the refugees and migrants based there. The very sudden displacement of thousands of people has caused great suffering to those in the camp, as well as posing a huge logistical challenge for the Greek authorities in the midst of the pandemic.

My colleague, the Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, spoke with his Greek counterpart immediately after the fire to offer Ireland's full solidarity and support. The Greek authorities requested assistance from EU Partners in dealing with the immediate humanitarian needs arising from the fire. My Department, through our Embassy in Athens, is in contact with the Greek Ministry of Migration Policy and has confirmed Ireland’s readiness to provide assistance from emergency stocks which we have in place at the UN Logistics Base in Brindisi, Italy. The Greek authorities have thanked us for this offer of assistance, and we stand ready to work with them regarding the deployment of the emergency supplies.

In terms of the situation within the camp, Greek authorities have started to transfer refugees and migrants to the Greek mainland in order to reduce overcrowding. In addition, the European Commission has now established a dedicated Taskforce with the aim of resolving the emergency situation on Lesbos effectively and humanely. The Taskforce will work closely with the Greek authorities to build new reception facilities in the coming months, which will be of a European standard and will provide access to healthcare and adequate sanitation.

As Minister for Foreign Affairs, I have repeatedly urged the need for greater solidarity and burden-sharing among Member States in dealing with the wider issue of migration. The migration crisis continues to be one of the major challenges confronting the European Union and it needs to be urgently addressed. We must find more sustainable solutions involving consensus among Member States based on solidarity and responsibility. I am committed to continuing to work with our EU partners to resolve these issues and to ensure that humanitarian and legal obligations continue to be met.

On 23 September 2020, the Commission published a major new proposal on reforming the EU migration and asylum system - a “New Pact on Migration and Asylum”. I welcome this initiative by the Commission. The publication of the Migration Pact proposals represents an opportunity to renew and intensify efforts to agree a common approach and put in place more effective and humane arrangements to manage the considerable migratory pressures that Europe continues to face.

We in Ireland are endeavouring to do our part, having already received 1022 asylum seekers (including six unaccompanied minors) from Greece under the first phase of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme.

In the context of the very difficult situation now arising from the destruction of the Moria refugee camp, the Government has decided that Ireland will welcome refugee families from Greece under the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP). Up to 50 people in family groups will be resettled following displacement due to the fire. This is in addition to the four unaccompanied minors, to be taken as part of our overall commitment to take 36 unaccompanied minors from Greece.

Officials from the Department of Justice and Equality are liaising with the European Commission on the detail of this commitment, and along with An Garda Síochána will travel to Greece in the coming weeks to make the arrangements.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (121)

Cian O'Callaghan

Question:

121. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if additional supports have been provided to the Palestinian people to help suppress the current Covid-19 surge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28427/20]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Ireland recognises that the Palestinian people are particularly vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic, a vulnerability that is closely linked to an overburdened healthcare system, and civilian populations suffering from insecurity, displacement, conflict and poverty. The most recent data available from the WHO records a total of 50,115 cases in the occupied Palestine territories, with 360 deaths.

Ireland’s 2020 development and humanitarian assistance to Palestine will amount to €16.2 million, of which €14.3 million has been disbursed to date. Irish funding balances awareness that the humanitarian crisis which the Palestinian people faced before COVID-19 continue with the need to also respond to the additional demands presented by the pandemic in the region.

Irish support this year includes €7 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), including an additional €1 million disbursed in September to support the Agency’s continued provision of critical services such as healthcare, education and humanitarian relief in these difficult circumstances.

In addition, Ireland has provided €1.18 million towards the social protection response to COVID-19, comprising €1 million in direct financial support to the Palestinian Authority’s Cash Transfer Programme for vulnerable families; and €180,000 to the World Bank Multi-Donor Trust Fund’s COVID-19 response in the West Bank and Gaza.

Ireland has also provided €3 million to the Palestinian Authority’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education; €500,000 to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA), additional to Ireland's core support for OCHA; €125,000 in support of Oxfam’s COVID-19 health response in Gaza; and €200,000 to the West Bank Protection Consortium, which seeks to protect Palestinians in the West Bank from forcible transfer. A further €564,000 has been disbursed to civil society organisations advocating for human rights and peace in the region.

Foreign Policy

Questions (122, 129, 138)

Neale Richmond

Question:

122. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps Ireland is taking to show solidarity with the people of Belarus at this time of unrest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27751/20]

Cormac Devlin

Question:

129. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in Belarus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28354/20]

Barry Cowen

Question:

138. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the current situation in Belarus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28482/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122, 129 and 138 together.

The deteriorating human rights situation in Belarus is appalling and Ireland strongly supports the Belorussian people in their clear and simple demands for free and fair elections and to have their basic human rights respected.

Even before the 9 August election, Ireland, and the EU, highlighted concerns regarding crackdowns on the freedom of assembly and arbitrary detentions in advance of the election at the Human Rights Council. Since then the situation has become considerably more grave.

We have seen indiscriminate mass detentions, including of minors, credible reports of torture and ill-treatment of those detained, forced exiles and disappearances, and curtailments of media freedoms, including internet shutdowns.

Ireland acted quickly and clearly to these events. I, and Minster of State Byrne made statements expressing our deep concern following the use of State violence against peaceful protesters. We have called for the immediate and unconditional release of those unjustly detained, for an end to the violence, and for a sustainable and peaceful resolution through dialogue.

This was also the message I conveyed during a UN Security Council Members meeting on 4 September and at the 45th Session of the Human Rights Council, where Ireland also supported a Joint Statement expressing concern at internet shutdowns.

We have condemned the actions of the Belorussian authorities and Ireland has continued to work with other EU Member States to ensure a firm EU response. We support the imposition of targeted sanctions against those responsible for the falsification of the election result and the use of State violence against the Belorussian people. However, sanctions are just one element of a broader response, and we are working constructively with our EU partners on a review of EU-Belarus relations.

The Taoiseach has spoken to opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who has a well-known connection to this country having spent many summers here in her youth. I met Mrs. Tsikhanouskaya, along with several other EU Foreign Ministers, in Brussels on 21 September. We both commended her on her bravery and expressed the support of the Irish people to the people of Belarus.

The recent secretive so-called 'inauguration' of Lukashenko lacks any democratic legitimacy. We will maintain our call for the authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue for fresh elections that are independently observed. The OSCE, of which Belarus is a member, has offered to visit Minsk and help facilitate talks and we will continue to encourage the authorities to grasp this offer with both hands and to uphold their OSCE commitments.

The future of Belarus is for the people alone to decide in fresh elections. Ireland will remain steadfast in our support for the Belorussian people as they continue to defend their rights and democratic principles.

A Vision for Change

Questions (123)

Matt Carthy

Question:

123. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to progress referendums on Irish unity. [22612/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Simon Coveney)

The approach of any Government in relation to Irish unity is guided by Article 3 of the Constitution, as amended by the people in 1998. The Government respects everyone’s right on this island to make the case for the constitutional future they wish to see for Northern Ireland - whether the continuation of the union with Great Britain or a sovereign united Ireland. The Good Friday Agreement - and the two sovereign Governments - explicitly recognise and validate the legitimacy of both of these constitutional positions, which are deeply held.

The holding of a referendum in this jurisdiction is connected with the calling of a border poll, under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement, in Northern Ireland. The decision to hold such a poll in Northern Ireland rests with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

The full implementation and effective operation of the Good Friday Agreement is a priority for this Government. The principle of consent and the possibility of change in the constitutional status of Northern Ireland are fundamental elements of the Good Friday Agreement, endorsed by the people of this island of Ireland, North and South. Should there be a vote in favour of constitutional change in the future, it will be a binding obligation on both Governments to introduce and support in their respective Parliaments legislation to give effect to that wish.

These are extremely important issues which naturally require very careful and serious consideration. The Government will continue to listen to and engage with the views of everyone on this island, on the constitutional future that they wish to see for Northern Ireland. It is for that reason that the Government has established a Shared Island unit within the Department of An Taoiseach. This unit will examine the political, social, economic and cultural considerations underpinning a future for this island in which all traditions are mutually respected.

Question No. 124 answered with Question No. 120.

Human Rights

Questions (125)

John Brady

Question:

125. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to the ongoing detention of defenders (details supplied) of women's rights in Saudi Arabia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28455/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Protecting and promoting human rights is a cornerstone of Ireland’s foreign policy. Ireland has consistently supported women human rights defenders and continually advocates for the freedom of all civil society actors to operate in a safe and enabling environment.

The detention of women human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia is deeply concerning, and Ireland has consistently raised concerns, both bilaterally with the Saudi authorities, and in international fora, notably the Human Rights Council.

At the most recent Human Rights Council, Ireland co-signed a Joint statement which expressed deep concern at the ongoing detention of women human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia. Ireland has also co-sponsored resolutions at the Human Rights Council calling upon states to investigate alleged human rights violations in the administration of justice and abuses suffered by persons deprived of their liberty.

During the last Universal Periodic Review of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record in November 2018, Ireland raised its concern about the imprisonment of Human Rights Defenders and recommended that Saudi Arabia bring its laws into line with international standards for the exercise of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association.

Ireland also works closely with other EU Member States to ensure that human rights issues in Saudi Arabia are addressed, and the EU Delegation has raised the cases of the detention of women human rights defenders directly with the Saudi authorities on multiple occasions and at various levels.

We welcome that plans are advancing to establish an EU-Saudi Arabia Human Rights Dialogue. This will provide a valuable additional forum to discuss human rights issues including individual cases.

Question No. 126 answered with Question No. 118.

Foreign Birth Registration

Questions (127)

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill

Question:

127. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the average wait time for applications in the foreign births register section; the capacity at which the section is operating; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28434/20]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Foreign Births Registration Section has now resumed the processing of applications. Foreign Births Registration, by its nature, can be a detailed and complex process, often involving official documentation related to three generations and issued by several jurisdictions.

At present, it takes between 12 to 18 months to process an application to completion. The section is operating at full capacity.

The Foreign Births Registration Section has also introduced a dedicated webchat service for those seeking further information in relation to their application for FBR. This webchat service is open weekdays from 9:00 to 16:30 and can be accessed through the Citizenship page on my Department's website.