I am aware of the open letter to which the Deputy refers. The Government remains deeply concerned about the ongoing violence in Rakhine State in the wake of attacks on police posts near Myanmar/Burma’s border with Bangladesh in October 2016. Ireland has called for an immediate end to violence in the region, and for an impartial, independent investigation into serious allegations of human rights violations committed by security forces in response to the attacks. Also critical is full restoration of access for humanitarian aid to Rakhine State, to ensure vulnerable communities receive the support they need.
Ireland has been active in raising our concerns at bilateral level with the authorities in Myanmar/Burma and in the context of our membership of the EU and the UN. Ireland’s Ambassador to Thailand, who is accredited to Myanmar/Burma, raised Ireland’s concerns regarding the situation in Rakhine State with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs U Kyaw Tin during a visit to the country earlier this month. The Embassy continues to monitor the situation closely.
Ireland welcomes the democratic transition which is currently underway in Myanmar/Burma following elections in November 2015. We recognise the positive steps that the new Government of Myanmar/Burma has taken in pursuit of peace and reconciliation, democratic reforms and economic growth. The Irish Government is of the view that respect for human rights and the rule of law for all people in Myanmar/Burma remains central to the long-term success of these goals. Addressing the underlying root causes of tensions in Rakhine State, in a manner that takes account of the concerns of the Rohingya and Buddhist communities, and led by the Government of Myanmar/Burma, is critical in this context.
