Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 May 2012
188 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Ambassador to South Africa has presented his credentials in Zimbabwe; and if so, if he has made any representations to the authorities regarding human rights issues in the country. [25483/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 19 April 2012, our Ambassador to South Africa presented his letter of appointment to the President of Zimbabwe. The formal presentation ceremony follows a strict protocol with the Head of State leading the conversation. The issue of human rights did therefore not arise in the course of President Mugabe's conversation with our Ambassador. However, Ireland's concerns on human rights have been consistently made clear to the Zimbabwean authorities and our Ambassador will continue to do so when he visits that country. The Zimbabwean authorities are aware that Ireland fully subscribes to the EU position on Zimbabwe. Since 2008, when violence broke out during the elections in Zimbabwe, the EU has implemented targeted restrictive measures against specified individuals and entities. These measures are a clear statement of our continuing concern at the state of human rights in that country.
At present, a reform process is underway in Zimbabwe which should lead to a revised constitution, reform of the electoral laws and the holding of elections within the coming months. The countries of the Southern African region, and notably South Africa, are playing the leading role in working with the parties in Zimbabwe to facilitate these steps, and the EU and the wider international community are supporting the process.
Ireland, both directly and through the EU, is working to respond to the development needs of the people of Zimbabwe. Since 2002, the EU has suspended support to the Government of Zimbabwe because of its failure to fulfil commitments on democracy and human rights. My Department, through Irish Aid, funds a programme of support to civil society, humanitarian assistance and people living with HIV in Zimbabwe.
