Human Rights

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2021

Tuesday, 6 July 2021

Questions (255)

Paul Murphy

Question:

255. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the issue of the human rights violations by the government of Saudi Arabia was raised during his meeting with the Saudi Minister of State of Foreign Affairs, Adel al-Jubier, in Riyadh on 16 June 2021; his views on whether the Saudi Government is in violation of Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and if he has contacted and discussed same with democratic Saudi political forces (details supplied). [35853/21]

Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I visited Saudi Arabia on 16 June, meeting Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and Deputy Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir.

In both meetings, I raised Ireland's concern over human rights, including the use of the death penalty. I also raised the importance of having a frank and constructive dialogue over human rights issues, and welcomed plans to convene an EU-Saudi Arabia Human Rights dialogue.

Ireland is committed to all aspects of human rights, and encourages adherence to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in both bilateral dialogues, and in appropriate international fora.

I have not been in contact with the group referred to in the details supplied.