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Human Rights Issues.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 March 2004

Wednesday, 31 March 2004

Ceisteanna (106, 107)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

89 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the European Union will co-sponsor a resolution at the 60th United Nations Commission for Human Rights which will deal with the breach of human rights in China in general, and the occupation of Tibet in particular. [9896/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Ireland, along with our EU partners. takes seriously concerns about human rights in China. Human rights, including the situation in Tibet, are an integral part of our ongoing relationship with China. At its meeting on 22-23 March last the GAERC stressed the importance that the EU attaches to dialogue with third countries in the human rights field generally, and particularly in the context of the Commission on Human Rights. It recalled that the EU has engaged in dialogue with the Government of China on human rights issues.

It is the view of the European Union that the dialogue with China does not preclude appropriate consideration by the Commission on Human Rights of the human rights situation in that country. The EU has received the text of the proposed US resolution on human rights in China and is studying the contents of the draft carefully.

Question No. 90 answered with QuestionNo. 27.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

91 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the latest reports or information he has received from the consular office in respect of the persons that attended the trial of three Irish men facing serious charges in Colombia; if he has any information on when a verdict will be given; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9911/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

The ambassador to Colombia acted as my official representative throughout the trial and his reports were considered carefully in my Department. The trial has ended and the decision of the judge is awaited. The Deputy will appreciate that, pending the delivery of the judge's decision, it would not be appropriate for me to make any comment on this case.

During his recent meeting in Dublin with the Vice-President of Colombia, Mr. Francisco Santos Calderon, the Taoiseach took the opportunity to reiterate the concerns for the safety and security of the men and our hope that the trial would be concluded as expeditiously as possible. I assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to follow this case closely and to provide all possible consular assistance to the men and their families.

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