Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 May 2021
84. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the engagement he has had with the Chinese embassy following reports that an Irish journalist and their family had to leave China following extensive surveillance and threats from the Chinese authorities. [24202/21]
View answerI am aware of the case of the journalist in question. I do not wish to comment on individual cases but it is nevertheless worrying that any journalist feels that they cannot continue to do their work in mainland China.
I also note the statement by the EU Spokesperson on this case, from the 2nd April.
My Department is in frequent touch with the Chinese Embassy and media coverage of this case has been extensive. Indeed, the Embassy itself engaged in social media on this issue, which received a strong reaction from individual Irish citizens, and attracted some global attention. The Chinese authorities, including the Embassy here, can be in no doubt as to the importance we in Ireland place on media freedom and freedom of expression.
Ireland actively works to promote and protect the rights of journalists, media freedom and the right to freedom of expression, both online and offline, through our Embassies and Missions and in relevant international fora, notably the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and the OSCE.
Ireland recognises that the conditions for foreign media in China are deteriorating, and this has led to a number of foreign correspondents leaving that country. This is regrettable, as it reduces the channels of communication between China and the wider world.
The EU has also repeatedly expressed its concerns to the Chinese authorities at the undue working restrictions imposed on foreign journalists and reported related harassment. The EU has called upon China to abide by its obligations under national and international law and ensure the freedom of speech and of the press.
For Ireland, as we seek to engage further with China as an important global actor, the contribution of a free and open media will be important in ensuring a shared understanding between us. We continue to support the free and uninhibited flow of news, opinion, and reporting around the world.
