Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 September 2021
228. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent of restrictions imposed on democratically-elected party or opposition party representatives in Bahrain or other locations throughout the east or Middle East; the extent to which the international community has engaged with the victims; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47411/21]
View answerRespect for human rights is an integral part of Ireland’s foreign policy and we consistently seek to raise our concerns on human rights issues through the most appropriate and effective channels. Our active participation at the UN Human Rights Council is particularly important in that regard. Ireland has raised human rights issues in Bahrain and other Middle East states at the Human Rights Council in the form of national statements and through support to EU Statements.
With respect to the situation in Bahrain in particular, I would refer the Deputy to recent responses to Parliamentary questions:
Foreign Policy – Tuesday, 13 Jul 2021 – Parliamentary Questions (33rd Dáil) – Houses of the Oireachtas;
Human Rights – Tuesday, 21 Sep 2021 – Parliamentary Questions (33rd Dáil) – Houses of the Oireachtas
Ireland will continue to monitor developments in Bahrain and elsewhere in the region and encourage governments to make progress in relation to human rights.
