Roger T. Garland
Ceist:37 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has made any representations to the Government of the United States of America with regard to the enforced repatriation of Haitian refugees.
Written Answers. - Haitian Refugees.
Ireland is deeply concerned about developments in Haiti since the military coup against the country's first democratically elected President, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, on 30 September last. We have condemned the coup and we have supported the suspension of economic assistance to Haiti under the Lomé Convention. We have also co-sponsored a Resolution at the UN General Assembly calling for the restoration of the legitimate authorities and for full respect for human rights. The situation of those who have been forced to flee Haiti is a matter of serious concern to the Government and to the international community. It is being examined by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and a report on their repatriation is being prepared by him for the United Nations. While awaiting the outcome of this report we welcome the agreement signed in Washington on 23 February under the auspices of the Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States which should allow for the reinstatement of the legitimate government in Haiti and an early return to Haiti of the refugees.