Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 February 2012
62 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has, individually or in tandem with European partners, carried out a recent review of the political situation in Burma; if he has had or intends to have direct contact with Madam Aung San Suu Kyi or members of her party, the National League for Democracy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5867/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government remains closely engaged at both European Union and international level in monitoring the situation in Burma and in supporting the Burmese people in their struggle for democracy and human rights. We have been encouraged by recent movements including the opening of dialogue between the Burmese Government and Aung San Suu Kyi as well as approval of the registration of her political party, the National League for Democracy. We also view positively the negotiation of a cease-fire deal between the Burmese Government and ethnic rebels, the recent visits to Burma of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and British Foreign Secretary William Hague, and the reported release of a significant number of Burmese political prisoners.
Together with my EU colleagues, and as a signal of our hope for Burma's continuing process of political reform, the EU has begun to take steps to ease the sanctions on Burma by suspending the visa ban on certain individuals.
While the situation in Burma has improved, there is still much to achieve. I hope for continuing reform over coming months, including the unconditional release of all remaining political prisoners as well as further action from the Burmese Government in addressing the concerns of ethnic minority groups and towards the establishment of comprehensive human rights protection for the people of Burma. I remain optimistic that April's by-election — in which Aung San Suu Kyi is due to stand — will be characterised by free and fair conduct.
I expect to speak with Aung San Suu Kyi, members of the National League for Democracy and other civil society organisations at an appropriate occasion in the future. In the meantime, EU High Representative Ashton intends to visit Burma in the coming months and I look forward to hearing her report of the progress of reform.
Together with my EU colleagues, I want recent developments to indicate a lasting change for the people of Burma and that they herald the beginning of a new era of peace, democracy and respect for human rights. The actions of the Burmese Government over the next few months will be crucial to establishing their commitment to the process of reform and in securing the confidence and trust of the international community — including Ireland — which will be paying close attention during this transformational period.
