Vol. 493 No. 5
61 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the initiatives, if any, he will take in the coming months to address the problems in Algeria, Nigeria and other locations where there have been either human rights abuse or ongoing violence; the extent, if any, to which contact has been made directly with the authorities concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16428/98]
The issue of human rights is a priority concern of this Government and, as such, is a central component of our foreign policy. We believe that the international community has legitimate concerns in this area and we are conscious of the responsibility which devolves on all governments to promote and protect human rights.
In co-operation with our EU partners we continue to monitor closely the human rights situations in a number of countries. On many occasions we have identified situations giving cause for serious concern. For example, at the UN Commission on Human Rights in Geneva earlier this year, the common EU statement highlighted our concern at human rights violations in a number of countries, such as China, Chad, Cuba, Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, Niger, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Former Republic of Yugoslavia, Burundi, Rwanda, Belarus, Cambodia, Russian Republic of Chechnya, Colombia, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, Haiti, Indonesia, Kashmir, Kenya, Liberia, Mexico, Peru, Tajikistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Cyprus, Bhutan, Papua New Guinea, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Sri Lanka. In addition, the EU tabled resolutions on the human rights situation in Nigeria, Burma, Iran, Iraq, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Occupied Arab Territories.
It may be necessary to address a number of these concerns again at the next session of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly in November. Hopefully, we will also be in a position to welcome improvements in this area as a result of international efforts and dialogue.
66 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the new regime in Nigeria; and the efforts, if any, being made directly and at the EU level to encourage a return to democratic rule. [16378/98]
The Government hopes that the new regime of General Abubakar will move rapidly to restore democracy and the rule of law to Nigeria. The Government has been deeply concerned about the situation in Nigeria, notably the widespread violations of human rights and the failure to date of the process of transition to civilian rule. We very much hope that General Abubakar will now fulfil General Abacha's commitments with regard to ensuring a return to democracy and the rule of law before 1 October 1998. The election of a civilian government will not only restore democracy to the people of Nigeria, but also significantly improve the country's standing internationally.
General Abubakar's actions during his first weeks in office have given some grounds for cautious optimism. He has indicated his intention to hold elections and to consult widely within Nigeria beforehand. On 15 June, the release of nine political prisoners, including former Head of State General Obasanjo, was announced. This was followed on 25 June by the announcement that a further 17 detainees were to be released.
General Abubakar's call on Nigerians to join in a process of reconstruction and reconciliation has been welcomed by Ireland and its EU partners. The EU has indicated its wish for a constructive dialogue with Nigeria and its readiness to support Nigeria in its efforts to establish an inclusive democracy. In his capacity as representative of the EU Presidency, UK Minister of State Tony Lloyd travelled to Nigeria to meet General Abubakar on 26 June. At that meeting, General Abubakar outlined his plans for moves towards the restoration of democracy and Minister Lloyd confirmed the EUs willingness to support this process.
