I propose to take Questions Nos. 52, 53, 58 and 59 together.
The issues which the Deputies have raised i.e. the observance of human rights, the right to freedom of speech, the protection of the environment and the treatment of street children in Brazil are matters of grave concern to the international community and the Twelve. The murder of individuals who have committed themselves to working for progress on these vital issues is particularly disturbing. I understand that the Government of Brazil under its new President Itamar Franco is investigating the recent murders which the Deputy has referred to as well as those of movement leaders and rural workers. I will continue to monitor this situation closely and keep it under review in the context of the ongoing dialogue between the European Community and the countries of Latin America in the Rio Group.
With regard to the murder of Edmeia de Silvan Euzebio who campaigned for investigation into the disappearance of children the Deputy will be aware that the last meeting of the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution which Ireland co-sponsored on the plight of street children in Brazil and elsewhere. A similar resolution was adopted by the UN Commission on Human Rights. I will raise the case referred to by the Deputy with the appropriate UN bodies.