Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 April 2017
391. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the EU-Libya deal on migration and refugees; if he has satisfied himself that Libya is a safe country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16238/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe migration crisis has been one of the greatest challenges facing the EU for the past two years. Migration was the main focus of the informal European Council held in Malta on 3 February, at which a Declaration addressing the external aspects of migration was issued. The Declaration restates the EU’s commitment to assist Libya. Priority is to be given to supporting the Libyan national coast guard; ensuring adequate reception capacities and conditions for migrants; supporting the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in stepping up assisted voluntary return activities; and enhancing information campaigns and outreach addressed at migrants in Libya and other countries of origin and transit. Priority will also be given to reducing pressure on Libya’s land border, including through enhanced border management capacity; monitoring of alternative routes and possible diversion of smugglers’ activities; supporting initiatives by Member States directly engaged with Libya; and deepening dialogue and co-operation with neighbouring countries.
Ireland along with its EU partners is very concerned about the conditions of migrants and refugees in Libya. The issue was addressed at the most recent Foreign Affairs Council. The EU called on the Libyan authorities to redouble their efforts to improve the human rights situation in the country. The EU is committed to assisting the Libyan authorities in this endeavour by enhancing the protection of migrants, helping to improve conditions in detention centres, ensuring adequate reception facilities, looking for alternatives to detention, and increasing assisted voluntary return to Libya. The EU will make use of the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa and will increase co-operation with the IOM and the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees in support of these commitments.
There is no "deal" with Libya. Rather the EU is proposing a number of ways to help Libya to manage and control the flow of migrants risking their lives. The EU will continue to be guided by its commitment to human rights and humanitarian concerns in this regard.
