Written Answers Nos. 81-100
82. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the work undertaken to date and the future plans to ensure to mitigate the impact of Brexit on the objectives and commitments contained in the Good Friday Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23943/21]
View answer87. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the work being done to mitigate the impact of Brexit on the objectives and commitments contained in the Good Friday Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24035/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 87 together.
The Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland addresses the complex set of unique challenges presented by Brexit on the island of Ireland. An integral part of the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement, it is the agreed way to safeguard the Good Friday Agreement, to avoid a hard border and protect the integrity of the Single Market.
North South cooperation, a central part of the Good Friday Agreement, is protected under the Protocol, which recognises that new North South arrangements can continue to be made. The NSMC brings our Government and the Northern Ireland Executive together to oversee and further develop this cooperation. We look forward to further progress in this regard.
The Protocol also provides for no diminution of the rights, safeguards and equality of opportunity for the people of Northern Ireland, as set out in the Good Friday Agreement. It is also important to recall that the Protocol affirms Northern Ireland’s constitutional status as set out in the Good Friday Agreement and that the Principle of Consent continues to apply.
The Common Travel Area (CTA) means Irish and British citizens can live, work, and move freely between both jurisdictions. It is recognised in both the Protocol and the EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement; it will be maintained in all circumstances. The CTA underpins the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts.
We continue to pursue East West cooperation and are seeking to strengthen those relationships. Implementation of the Protocol, and the ongoing implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, were the focus of a meeting between the Taoiseach and Prime Minister Johnson on 27 April and of my own visit to London last month. I look forward to participating in the next British-Irish Council Summit in Northern Ireland, and to a meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference, both taking place next month.
Our shared goal must be to achieve the Protocol’s full implementation. We welcome ongoing close engagement between the UK and EU on this. We are listening carefully to all concerns in Northern Ireland and welcome recent joint EU-UK outreach with stakeholders. We are committed to supporting EU-UK engagement to address these concerns appropriately.
83. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the humanitarian policy priorities for Ireland’s membership of the Security Council of the United Nations; the way these priorities are being progressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23992/21]
View answerWith conflict the main driver of humanitarian crises, prevention and response to humanitarian crises is a key priority during Ireland’s term on the UN Security Council, and is central to ‘A Better World’, Ireland’s policy for International Development Cooperation.
Throughout our Council term, Ireland will advocate for principled humanitarian assistance and adherence to International Humanitarian Law, and highlight the need for all parties to armed conflict to comply with their obligations under International Humanitarian Law. Ireland focuses on how humanitarian policy affects vulnerable groups, particularly women and girls. We also prioritise the need to protect humanitarian workers, and in this we include those representing Irish NGOs which do very important work.
As ‘co-penholder’ on the Syria Humanitarian file, we are working to ensure humanitarian aid is able to reach all people in need. In July 2020, the Security Council extended the mandate for one remaining cross-border mechanism at Bab al-Hawa, between Turkey and North West Syria, for a period of twelve months. I visited Bab al-Hawa in January, and saw first-hand the scale of the operation. Our clear message is that, at present, it would not be possible to meet humanitarian needs in Syria without renewal of the cross border resolution.
We are the informal focal point, with Niger, on Hunger and Conflict at the Council. During the open debate on Hunger and Conflict in March, I recalled the responsibility of the Security Council to fully implement Resolution 2417, which deals with issues such as starvation as a weapon of war, and the denial or impeding of humanitarian access. At the Council open debate on indispensable civilian objects last month, I highlighted the devastating impacts of attacks on food and water supplies, and the unacceptable use of starvation as a weapon of war.
Ireland has taken a leading role at the Council on the humanitarian crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia. We initiated discussions at the Council in February and March on the dire humanitarian and protection situation, and led negotiations for a press statement that was agreed by all Council members on 22 April. The press statement called for unfettered humanitarian access and a scaled up humanitarian response. We have also called for an urgent end to hostilities in Yemen, which is facing a severe humanitarian crisis.
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.
85. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the provisions in place to support Irish citizens whose visa has expired but test positive for Covid-19. [24171/21]
View answerMy Department provides consular assistance to all Irish citizens in distress overseas where requested. This includes confidential advice and support in relation to illness or any emergency situation, in line with the principles of our Consular Assistance Charter. While our Embassies and Consulates cannot provide medical advice, consular officials can provide citizens with information on local health supports in the context of COVID-19, including details of English-speaking doctors where required. As the Deputy will appreciate, our officials are precluded from intervening in or influencing the visa or immigration decisions of other jurisdictions. However, where appropriate, our officials can liaise with local authorities in relation to the welfare of an Irish citizen and request that all possible support be provided, including citizens who may shortly be required to leave the jurisdiction.
Requirements for individuals travelling to Ireland in the context of COVID-19, including the requirement for those arriving to Ireland to have a negative detected PCR test, are a matter for the Department of Health. My Department continues to work closely with the Department of Health to ensure that appropriate advice and support is provided to Irish citizens overseas.
86. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his engagements with the British Government regarding the protection of the Good Friday Agreement and recent comments in relation to the Irish Protocol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24261/21]
View answerI have been in regular contact with British Government Ministers in recent weeks. I travelled to London for a series of engagements in late April, including meetings with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Foreign Secretary and the Minister of State at the Cabinet Office, and I met again with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland last week in Dublin.
In these engagements, we discussed the importance of calm, measured leadership and of our two Governments working together to support the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement.
I also discussed the implementation of the New Decade New Approach agreement with the Secretary of State. The two Governments will continue to work to support the full implementation of the NDNA Agreement; for our part, the Government will deliver on our own commitments under the NDNA.
We have agreed to hold a meeting of the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference in June. The BIIGC is an important institution of the Good Friday Agreement, bringing together the British and Irish Governments under Strand Three of the Agreement to promote bilateral co-operation on matters of mutual interest within the competence of both Governments. It is imperative that we continue to work closely on a North/South and East-West basis in support of the power-sharing institutions in Northern Ireland and the North-South Ministerial Council, and the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and subsequent implementing agreements.
Issues relating to implementation of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland are regularly discussed in our ongoing contacts with British Government counterparts. Throughout our engagements, I have continued to make clear that our shared goal must be full implementation of the Protocol, which was negotiated between the UK and the EU to address the challenges caused by Brexit on the island of Ireland. It is the agreed way to safeguard the Good Friday Agreement, to avoid a hard border and protect the EU Single Market.
92. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which the provisions put in place in the context of Brexit continue to effectively cater for the situation arising in the aftermath of the departure of the UK from the EU; if specific or unforeseen issues that have arisen are being or can be addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3972/21]
View answerThe Government dedicated substantial time and resources into preparing for Brexit since 2016. This intensive effort across departments and agencies included the development of two Brexit Omnibus Acts; three Brexit Action Plans; substantial investment in the State’s infrastructure and IT systems (including provision for 1,500 additional staff to support new checks and controls); and the provision of financial, upskilling and advisory supports for impacted sectors and businesses. Throughout the Brexit process, our readiness work was always underpinned by a strong communications and outreach programme.
Nineteen weeks since the end of the transition period, businesses are adapting to the permanent changes arising from Brexit, including increased checks and controls on goods coming from Great Britain. Even with these checks in place, over 80% of goods are routinely ‘green routed’ to directly leave our ports on arrival. It should be noted that as the UK is now a 3rd country, customs and SPS formalities are now an integral part of trade with Great Britain. In practical terms, this means there will never be a scenario where 100% of goods arriving into Ireland from Great Britain will be able to move as seamlessly as they did when the UK was an EU Member.
A range of Government financial, advisory and upskilling supports are available, including training and grants, to assist businesses in dealing with these changes. Further information on these supports is set out at Gov.ie/Brexit.
Public communications and stakeholder engagement continue to be key elements of our Brexit response. We have invested in a comprehensive information campaign across all media platforms, targeted at the relevant sectors. In addition, Government Departments, including my own, continue to engage with all relevant stakeholders. For my part, I will convene a further meeting of the Brexit Stakeholder Forum in the coming weeks.
Given the expected impact on our fisheries sector, the Government has been engaging with EU partners, with the fisheries sector and coastal communities regarding possible mitigation measures.
A further wave of Brexit related change will arise later this year when the introduction of the postponed UK import controls will present a significant challenge for exporters and the State. Estimates indicate that the number of Export Health Certificates required will rise from 20,000 in 2020 to 192,000 for trade with GB and 42,000 for goods transiting the UK landbridge. Preparations for these changes are underway in the Department for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the HSE and local authorities, including reviews of systems and the recruitment and training of new staff. Substantial stakeholder engagement is continuing as is planning for an information campaign ahead of the changes.
We and our EU partners also continue to engage with stakeholders on the island of Ireland, including in relation to the Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland. An integral part of the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement, it is the agreed way to protect the Good Friday Agreement, to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland, and to protect the Single Market and Ireland’s place in it.
93. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if Ireland and the European Union can provide humanitarian assistance to India given the serious situation with regard to Covid-19 there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23946/21]
View answer116. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the contacts he has had with the Indian authorities in relation to providing support for those suffering from the latest Covid-19 wave in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24139/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 93 and 116 together.
We have all seen the rapidly deteriorating situation in India as a result of the COVID-19 surge. Avoidable deaths have resulted from an acute oxygen shortage. In response, Ireland - with Irish Aid officials in my Department working in partnership with colleagues in the Departments of Health and Housing, and also the HSE - has made an emergency donation of:
- 1248 Oxygen concentrators
- 2 Oxygen generators
- 365 ventilators and breathing circuits and
- 60 non-invasive ventilators
The Indian Red Cross is providing logistical assistance to ensure that these critical supplies are utilised and installed in hospitals across India. The question of further Irish Aid contributions remains under active review.
Ireland’s contribution forms part of a coordinated EU response to provide rapid and tangible support to India. Other countries that have provided oxygen, ventilators and medicines are: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Sweden. These donations, as well as Ireland's, have been arranged through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
The European Commission has also announced that it will allocate an initial €2.2 million in emergency funding for India, through the World Health Organisation. This funding will support case management of patients, and strengthening testing capacity.
During the recent EU-India Leader’s Summit on 8 May with Prime Minister Modi, the Taoiseach was able to directly convey deep sympathy and solidarity to the Prime Minister on behalf of the Irish people. Prime Minister Modi has expressed his appreciation to Ireland and to the EU partners for the assistance and solidarity.
Ireland and India enjoy excellent bilateral relations. The Embassy of Ireland in New Delhi has played an active role in liaising with the Indian Government on logistics, and ensuring our support is appropriate to needs.
94. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to raise the findings of a report (details supplied) which stated that the ongoing treatment of Palestinians in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories amounts to apartheid at the next meeting of the UN Security Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24212/21]
View answerI am aware of the report referred to in the details supplied, which my officials are reviewing.
I have been forthright in expressing my concerns regarding the Israeli occupation of Palestine. Ireland’s position on this issue is, and will continue to be, based on international law, Israel’s obligations as the occupying Power under the Fourth Geneva Convention, and on the relevant Resolutions of the UN Security Council. Ireland has made this position clear at the Security Council, where the issue is discussed each month.
Our approach is rooted in the illegality of Israel’s occupation and the right of Palestinians to self-determination. The restrictions that are imposed on Palestinians undermine the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, a right which is at the heart of the Two-State solution. Ireland also continues to raise a range of human rights issues directly with the Israeli authorities and in multilateral fora, including the Human Rights Council.
Ireland and the EU will continue to monitor developments on the ground. We remain committed to a two-State solution, and will continue to work with partners to revive a political process in line with international law, which ensures equal rights and is acceptable to both parties.
97. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the funding Ireland has provided to help developing countries access Covid-19 vaccines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23953/21]
View answerIreland is fully involved in efforts by the global health community to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for developing countries. The World Health Organisation has established a coordination and oversight mechanism, in the form of the ACT - Accelerator, and is working with other global health bodies on response. COVAX, the vaccine access pillar forms a key part of the ACT-A. Overall, Irish Aid funding to global health will be at least €50 million in 2021. This will support health systems capacity, and efforts to address other killer diseases such as TB and malaria, as well as COVID-19 response. So far this year, Irish Aid allocated €4 million to COVAX, and €1 million to the WHO to support its oversight role, ensuring fairness and transparency. In addition, Irish Embassies in Africa are working with local health Ministries to help them develop their health systems in the face of the pandemic: in Mozambique and Ethiopia, this is done in partnership with the HSE.
The COVAX mechanism is already delivering results. COVAX has secured options on 3.56 billion vaccine doses and has so far shipped over 53 million COVID-19 vaccines to 121 participants. Irish Embassies in partner countries are also working alongside WHO, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and others to support the vaccine rollout effort, which is challenging for many countries given weakened health systems capacity.
98. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the events in Colombia in recent days, including the killing of protestors by police officers and reports of human rights abuses. [24132/21]
View answerThe right to peaceful protest is, as this House knows, a vital element of any democracy and I understand that the vast majority of the protests across Colombia in recent days have been peaceful, with violence reported in just 15 of Colombia's 400 municipalities. Citizens rights to demonstrate and to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly must be respected and protected and not be suppressed by force.
I am deeply concerned at reports of disproportionate use of force by the police in Colombia against protestors and observers and at attacks on the police themselves and police infrastructure I understand that the deaths of 23 civilians and 1 police officer have initially been reported. I express my sincere condolences to the families of the victims and I condemn, in the strongest terms, the violence which has also led to the injury of hundreds of civilians and police officers.
Our Embassy in Bogotá is monitoring this serious and complex situation closely. The Embassy, alongside EU Member State partners and other Embassies, has met with the Colombian authorities in Bogotá. The authorities communicated their respect for the right to peaceful protest, while also condemning attacks on police and State Institutions and rejecting all illegitimate use of force. They stated that they are taking all reports of disproportionate use of force seriously and have opened 33 disciplinary investigations. I trust that the Colombian authorities will fully investigate and bring those responsible for abuses or human rights violations to justice.
I support the statement on 6 May by EU High Representative/Vice-President Borrell. I echo his call to reduce tensions and to reject the use of violence by those who mingle with protesters only to commit acts of vandalism. These illegal actions reduce the space for civil society to express itself and generate chaos and disorder.
After decades of violence, Colombia needs to continue and strengthen the advances on the path towards peace. Colombia’s citizens deserve stability, safety and certainty, especially in view of the serious challenges the country is facing from the coronavirus pandemic.
I welcome President Duque's call for a national dialogue and express Ireland's solidarity with the Government and people of Colombia in facing these challenges through peaceful, inclusive and constructive dialogue and in forging a consensus on dealing with them.
100. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the correspondence his Department has had with the governments of Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan in relation to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. [24199/21]
View answerThe construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in Ethiopia has been the cause of escalating tension between Ethiopia on the one hand, and Sudan and Egypt on the other.
Intertwined with other challenges in the Horn of Africa, resolution of the GERD dispute is vital for regional peace and security.
As a Member of the Security Council, and given our friendly relations with Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan, Ireland has been closely monitoring efforts to facilitate dialogue between the parties.
Government officials in Dublin and in our Embassies in Nairobi (accredited to Sudan), Addis Ababa and Cairo are particularly involved, alongside our Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York. These officials have met and spoken with counterparts from the countries concerned to listen to their views and to share Ireland’s position.
In these engagements, Ireland acknowledges that the issue of the GERD is one of critical significance for the three countries involved. We express support for the leadership of the Africa Union (AU) in facilitating negotiations to find an equitable and peaceful solution that is acceptable to all parties.
Ireland strongly supports the active role played by the EU in supporting the AU-led negotiation process, both through the work of the Office of the Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, Alex Rondos and Finnish Foreign Minister, Pekka Haavisto, a Special Envoy for the EU’s High Representative Josep Borrell. The issue of the GERD was most recently discussed by EU Foreign Ministers at the April Foreign Affairs Council attended by Minister Coveney.
Government officials also meet regularly with representatives of multilateral organisations, non-governmental organisations and Embassies which are monitoring developments on the ground.
Given the implications of the GERD dispute for regional peace and security, and the possibility that the matter may be brought again before the Security Council, Ireland will continue to closely monitor developments.
