asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, arising from the decision of the South African authorities to take action against 18 opposition groups within that country he will be making a protest on behalf of the Government; and if he will arrange to have the matter discussed within the context of European Political Co-Operation.
Written Answers. - South African Government Action Against Opposition.
62.
Since as a matter of policy Ireland does not have diplomatic relations with South Africa I will not be making a protest to the South African Authorities in the matter. The Government strongly condemn the action of the South African Government in prohibiting certain South African organisations peacefully opposed to apartheid from engaging in political activities.
The Twelve have already discussed the matter in European Political Co-Operation and on 25 February, issued a declaration condemning this latest action of the South African Government as a new manifestation of political repression in that country and calling on the South African Government to repeal the measures imposed without delay. I am arranging to have a copy of the Twelve statement placed in the Dáil Library.