The Government holds the person and the office of the Dalai Lama in the highest regard and considers him to be a significant force for moderation given the present circumstances which exist in Tibet. His Holiness is always welcome to visit Ireland whenever he wishes.
I assure the Deputy that in its bilateral contacts with China, and through the EU, Ireland has consistently called on the Chinese Government to respect the rights of the Tibetan people and to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama.
Last September the Taoiseach raised the situation in Tibet during his meeting with the Chinese Premier, Mr. Zhu, in Dublin. He called for a dialogue between the affected parties with a view to overcoming the current impasse.
I reiterated this position during my meeting in Beijing with my Chinese counterpart, Minister Tang, on 23 January. I highlighted the level of concern in Ireland in relation to Tibet and strongly encouraged the Chinese authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama on the issues of concern.