asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement regarding persecution of members of the Baha'i religious community in Iran; and if he will make representations to the Iranian diplomatic mission in Dublin on this issue.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers - Persecution of Baha'i Religious Community.
7.
I regret to say that the Baha'is in Iran, whose plight has been raised before in this House, continue according to reports to suffer various forms of ill-treatment. The deep concern of the Government at this situation has frequently been made clear in international fora such as the UN General Assembly and the Commision on Human Rights. The matter has also been raised by us directly with the Iranian authorities and their representatives on a number of occasions. The most recent démarche took place in Tehran on 2 October when the Irish Charged' Affaires, accompanied by his French and Italian colleagues, made representations on behalf of the Ten. The Government intend to follow closely developments relating to the treatment of Baha'is in Iran and will continue to make their position known as appropriate.
Is the Minister aware of reports which indicate that large numbers of adherents to the Baha'i religion in Iran are being butchered and massacred? Having regard to the fact that we now have a diplomatic mission in Dublin, would the Minister be prepared to make strong representations to them regarding their continuance in that role with the diplomatic status given to them here if they pursue genocide in their own country?
As I said, I am aware that the Baha'is in Iran continue to suffer various forms of ill-treatment but I do not think the Deputy's suggestion is the most effective way of showing our concern to the Iranian authorities. The road we chose, a démarche from the Ten, when the representatives of three Governments make representations at the highest level, could be much more effective.
Are there any indications that it has been more effective?
I cannot answer that question as representations were made only two weeks ago.