Darragh O'Brien
Ceist:242. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the situation in Venezuela; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50375/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 28 November 2017
Ceisteanna (242)
Freagraí scríofa
The situation in Venezuela continues to be a matter of serious concern to the Government. Gubernatorial elections took place on 15 October amidst numerous reported incidences of irregularity and the results were not recognised by a large part of the opposition. This has accentuated the political polarisation in the country. The EU has called for full transparency on the results of the elections through a comprehensive and independent audit and Ireland has been wholly supportive of that position.
The establishment of an all-powerful Constituent Assembly has further eroded the democratic and independent institutions. Ireland and its EU partners have said that we cannot recognise the Constituent Assembly or its acts because of serious concerns about its legitimacy and representativeness.
On 13 November last, at a meeting of EU Foreign Ministers, which I attended, it was agreed unanimously to adopt restrictive measures, underscoring our concerns at the situation in the country. These measures consist of an embargo on arms and on related material that might be used for internal repression, as well as a legal framework for a travel ban and assets freeze.
Ireland has supported calls on the Venezuelan Government to urgently restore democratic legitimacy, including through free and fair elections, and on the opposition to continue engaging in a united manner towards a negotiated solution to the current tensions, in the interest of the country. Ireland is also fully supportive of regional and international efforts to find a lasting solution to the crisis.