Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2015
490. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will press his counterpart in the Republic of Indonesia, Minister Retno L.P. Marsudi, to allow international journalists access to West Papua and commit to genuine media freedom for local and international journalists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5878/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe human rights situation in West Papua, and in particular the difficulties the media face in reporting on developments there, remains an issue of concern. The situation in Papua was raised directly with the Indonesian Foreign Ministry on 12 November last during the EU-Indonesia human rights dialogue. It also remains an issue which I, as well as my officials, will continue to raise with the Indonesian side. Ireland also supported the United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution on Safety of Journalists at the 27th Session of the Council last September. This Resolution urged States to promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists to perform their work independently. A free and independent media is indispensable for democracy.
