Human Rights Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 July 2013

Tuesday, 16 July 2013

Ceisteanna (173)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

173. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if missions to Burma are being refused entry to Rohingya IDP camp; how they can address the human rights issues of the Rohingya persons; if he will outline what Ireland has been doing at UN level on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35489/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I refer the Deputy to the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 131 of 9 July outlining recent decisions taken by the EU in relation to Myanmar/ Burma. Myanmar/Burma is continuing to undergo a process of long-awaited transformation. Ireland and our EU partners recognise that significant progress has been made, but that complex challenges remain. We continue to urge the Government of Myanmar/Burma to address these challenges, particularly issues in regards to the Rohingya minority, through the relevant bilateral and multilateral channels. At the 22nd session of UN Human Rights Council in March, Ireland supported an EU-led resolution which highlighted a number of human rights issues in Myanmar/Burma requiring action, including extending the mandate of the special rapporteur, and invited the Government to set a timetable for the opening of an OHCHR country office.

At the 23rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in May/June, Ireland and our fellow council members adopted a Presidential Statement regarding the Situation for Muslims in Myanmar/Burma. Human Rights Council members expressed deep concern at the gross violations of human rights against Muslims, including the Rohingya community, and urged the government there to grant full citizenship rights to the Rohingya in Rakhine, and review the 1982 citizenship law.

Ireland stands ready to share its experiences and to assist the process of democratisation in Myanmar/Burma. Together with our EU colleagues, we want to continue to encourage the government in Myanmar/Burma to continue on its path of democratisation and reform and to address further issues of concern.