Donal Carey
Ceist:41 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the situation in Colombia; and if this matter has been considered recently by the EU General Affairs Council. [16479/98]
Written Answers. - Human Rights Abuses.
The appalling human rights situation in Colombia continues to be of serious concern to Ireland and our EU partners. I am particularly concerned at the killings of human rights defenders and the harassment and threats directed at human rights activists. In this regard, I share the widespread international concern about the activities of paramilitary and vigilante groups operating with the support or acquiescence of the armed forces in that country, as well as groups opposed to the armed forces. The victims are the innocent people of Colombia and dedicated individuals who have pledged themselves to advance the cause of human rights.
The European Union has been following with close interest and concern the human rights situation in Colombia and has conveyed its concerns to the Government of Colombia. The EU was particularly shocked by the murders of prominent and respected personalities active in public life, including Jesus Maria Valle, Maria Arango Fonnegra and Eduardo Umana. The EU unreservedly condemned these killings.
The European Union considers that the best deterrent against the continuation of such atrocities would be the arrest and trial of the authors and perpetrators of such crimes and has urged the Colombian authorities to do all they can to bring to justice those responsible for these crimes.
The EU has also conveyed to the Colombian authorities its concern about the threats received by other prominent individuals working for peace and has urged that highest priority be given to providing protection for those people working to promote respect for human rights in Colombia.