Human Rights

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 December 2016

Tuesday, 6 December 2016

Ceisteanna (256)

Ruth Coppinger

Ceist:

256. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has requested the Irish ambassador to the United States to report on the issue of Standing Rock Reservation, the protests taking place and the reported emergency evacuation order by North Dakota; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38550/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

The Standing Rock Reservation, particularly with regard to the planned Dakota Access Pipeline, is a matter for the authorities in the state of North Dakota and the US Federal Government. As the Government has no locus standi in this matter, I do not propose to ask our Ambassador in Washington DC to become engaged on the issue.