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Human Rights Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 January 2016

Thursday, 21 January 2016

Ceisteanna (132)

Eric J. Byrne

Ceist:

132. Deputy Eric Byrne asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to clarify a situation regarding a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2553/16]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Human Rights issues form part of Ireland’s continuing dialogues with other countries, across all regions of the world. Human rights issues are discussed on a regular basis with the Chinese authorities during both bilateral and multilateral meetings, including during the visit of Premier Li Keqiang to Ireland in May 2015.

The Government follows closely reports of human rights violations against Falun Gong practitioners.

Through the formal framework of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue, which was established in 1995, the EU continues to share with China its experience in the field of human rights protection and promotion, and to urge China to take clear steps to improve the human rights situation. The latest session of this dialogue took place on 30 November – 1 December 2015 and provided the EU with the opportunity to have a detailed exchange of views on a wide range of human rights issues with China. The EU raised a number of issues including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, and freedom of religion or belief.

In 2013, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade held a series of meetings with representatives of the Irish Falun Dafa Association and human rights lawyers. During these meetings the Irish Falun Dafa Association discussed ways in which human rights issues are raised with Chinese authorities by both Ireland and the EU. However, it should be noted that the Chinese Government denies accusations of human rights abuses against those who practice Falun Gong.

Ireland, together with our EU partners, will continue to address human rights issues with China, in frequent and regular dialogue, through our contacts in both Dublin and Beijing and through the relevant multilateral channels.

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