Written Answers Nos. 1-36
9. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the ongoing outstanding requests with the British Government regarding inquiries into the Dublin Monaghan bombings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3639/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraDealing with long-outstanding issues relating to the legacy of the conflict in Northern Ireland are of the utmost importance to the Government. The Programme for a Partnership Government highlights this priority, with specific reference to implementation of the All-Party Dáil motions relating to the Dublin Monaghan bombings.I acknowledge also those across the House who work on a cross-party basis with the Government on this issue and the tireless efforts of Justice for the Forgotten.
The All-Party motion on the 1974 Dublin Monaghan bombings that was adopted by the Dáil on 25 May 2016 has, like those adopted in 2008 and 2011, been conveyed to the British Government. These motions call on the British Government to allow access by an independent, international judicial figure to all original documents relating to the Dublin and Monaghan bombings, as well as the Dublin bombings of 1972 and 1973, the bombing of Kay’s Tavern in Dundalk and the murder of Seamus Ludlow.
The Government is committed to actively pursuing the implementation of these all-Party Dáil motions, and has consistently raised the issue with the British Government. I am actively engaged with the British Government on an ongoing basis on this issue, as are officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. I discussed the matter with the former Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, James Brokenshire, and I will likewise be pursuing the issue directly with the new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Karen Bradley.
As part of this engagement, the Government underlines that the Dáil motions represent the consensus political view in Ireland that an independent, international judicial review of all the relevant documents is required to establish the full facts of the Dublin Monaghan atrocities. I have also advised that the absence of a response from the British Government is of deep concern to the Government and indeed this House, and I have emphasised the urgent need for such a response.
The Government will continue to engage with the British Government on the request in relation to the Dublin-Monaghan bombings, and pursue all possible avenues that could achieve progress on this issue, consistent with the request made by this House.
11. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Government has prepared and finalised Brexit sectoral response plans for each Department as committed to in May 2017; if so, if he will publish these plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3688/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra13. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the development of adaptive sectoral response plans to Brexit, including plans for stakeholder consultation and publication timelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3505/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra39. Deputy James Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his Department has carried out an analysis of the potential impact of Brexit here by county with particular reference to County Wexford. [3492/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 11, 13 and 39 together.
The situation with regard to the Brexit negotiations has evolved significantly since the publication of the Government’s comprehensive approach document last May and the Government’s preparations have adjusted accordingly. Contingency planning at both a domestic and an EU level is focused on three areas: preparing for a no-deal scenario or so-called “disorderly Brexit”; preparing for a transition period based on the “status quo”; and preparing for the future EU-UK relationship.
While the outcome of the December European Council and the move on to Phase 2 has lessened the likelihood of a disorderly Brexit, very detailed work on a no-deal or worst-case-scenario is advancing intensively through the cross-Departmental coordination structures chaired by my Department.
Before Christmas, the possible consequences for each sector were comprehensively established. Now the work is focusing on possible mitigating measures. This work is also informed by ongoing stakeholder engagement. Separately, a new preparedness unit in the Commission is considering EU-level responses.
All this work provides a baseline scenario for the policies and sectors impacted, which can then be adapted as appropriate in light of developments in the EU-UK negotiations. This includes, as appropriate, any specific responses necessary according to regional needs and at the county level, including in Wexford.
That is why the decision has been taken to concentrate on completing this work and to participate in the preparation of the EU approach to the future relationship negotiations.
As concerns transitional arrangements, I welcome that the direction of travel is now firmly towards achieving a “status quo” transition period. Agreement on a “status quo” transition will provide certainty to individuals and businesses while also aiming to avoid any cliff edge effects between the UK leaving the EU and a future relationship agreement coming into force.
The expectation is that the European Council will adopt additional Guidelines at its meeting on 22-23 March 2018 on the framework for the future EU-UK relationship. These guidelines – as well as further clarity on the UK position, which has been sought by the European Council – will provide a clearer picture of the direction of travel in the negotiations. This will provide a basis on which the Government will publish a new paper in the coming months on our approach to the negotiations and our latest assessment of the economic and sectoral challenges posed by Brexit and our responses to them.
This work will, of course, be firmly grounded in the extensive work and outreach that has already been undertaken by individual Departments and agencies, as well as by stakeholder organisations, academics and others. Much of this is in the public domain, including the detailed response plan "Building Stronger Business - Responding to Brexit by competing, innovation and trading", which was published in November. A number of further important studies are underway with a view to publication in the coming weeks and months.
12. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will request the release of a person (details supplied); his views on the position of UNICEF that the ill-treatment of Palestinian children in military detention is widespread, systematic and institutionalised; his further views on the fact that Israel is the only nation that systematically detains and prosecutes children in a military court system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3504/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra28. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has discussed the detention of Palestinian children and teenagers by the Israeli authorities with Israeli representatives here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3653/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 28 together.
The overall human rights situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including the treatment of children in detention, remains a matter of concern. Ireland has repeatedly drawn attention to concerns regarding the treatment of Palestinian prisoners. We have paid particular attention over recent years to issues related to the detention of minors. Ireland also provides financial support to Israeli and Palestinian NGOs who are active in bringing these issues to light.
I am aware of the issues raised by UNICEF, including in the February 2013 UNICEF report, entitled “Children in Israeli Military Detention”. I would urge the Israeli authorities, in accordance with their obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, to use detention only as a means of last resort, and for the shortest appropriate period of time, in the case of minors.
During my visit to the Middle East last week, I again raised Ireland’s concerns about the detention of minors directly with the Israeli authorities, including the issues of night-time arrests and blindfolding.
Ireland has also raised these issues at EU level and in international fora, including during the Universal Periodic Review of Israel at the UN Human Rights Council in 2013. In the most recent Universal Periodic Review of Israel, earlier this week, Ireland raised the issue of administrative detention, and made recommendations on the rights of detainees.
My Department and I will continue to press on these issues in the relevant multilateral fora, and also, where appropriate, directly with Israel.
In relation to the specific case referred to by the Deputies, an Irish diplomatic representative was present at the person in question’s hearing in Ofer military court in the West Bank on 20 December, along with other international representatives. My Department will continue to monitor that case and others.
14. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the most recent developments in Palestine regarding the possible withdrawal of recognising the state of Israel that was made at an international conference in Madrid in 1991 will be discussed with his other EU colleagues at the next EU Council meeting. [3057/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) recognized Israel in 1993, as part of the Oslo Accords, which also set out a path towards a two-state solution. There has understandably been a strong reaction among Palestinians to the US decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. I have made clear that I believe the US announcement was premature and unhelpful. The EU has reaffirmed our belief in a two state solution, with Jerusalem as a capital for both Israel and Palestine. At the January meeting of the PLO Central Council there was evidently deep frustration not just at the US announcement, but also at the lack of progress over two decades in building on the Oslo Accords. Some statements made at the Central Council included inflammatory rhetoric. The Central Council also decided to assign the Executive Committee of the PLO to suspend recognition of Israel, pending reciprocal recognition of a State of Palestine.
However, this decision has not yet been implemented. It will be for President Abbas to decide whether to act on this recommendation, and so far, he has not done so. I believe that the international community should focus on actions, not rhetoric. I note that President Abbas reaffirmed his opposition to terrorism in all forms, in the course of the Council.
My EU colleagues and I met again with President Abbas at the Foreign Affairs Council on Monday. Our conviction that it would be a major step back to withdraw recognition of Israel was clear. We also reiterated our support for the two state solution, as an outcome of an agreement between the parties.
I very strongly urge President Abbas to maintain Palestinian recognition of Israel, something which the PLO has accepted since 1993.
15. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to invite a delegation from the Parliament in Gaza to meet with an all-party delegation in Dáil Éireann. [3495/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra29. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to arrange an all-party delegation to visit the Parliament in Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3494/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 29 together.
The Palestinian Parliament, known as the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC), was elected in 2006, but it has not held a regular session since 2007. There is a PLC building in Gaza, but Gaza does not have its own parliament, as such.
The occupied Palestinian territory is made up of both the West Bank and Gaza, and Ireland fully supports the unity of that territory. I welcome the recent progress towards a full return by the Palestinian Authority to Gaza, an effort that would restore a unified Palestinian Authority Government. I conveyed my support for this process directly to President Abbas during my visit to the Middle East earlier this month. I was very happy to be able to have a meeting with a Palestinian Authority Minister in Gaza during my visit, as a sign that that process is underway. In both meetings, I reaffirmed Ireland's commitment to working to end the blockade in Gaza, and to help provide positive prospects for young people there.
Following the 2006 election, the EU recognised as legitimate the Palestinian Government subsequently formed by Hamas, but also exercised its own right not to engage directly with members of Hamas, while it remains committed to an armed struggle. Ireland and the EU do engage fully with the current Palestinian Government, which is committed to pursuing the objective of a two state solution by purely peaceful means. It is for the Oireachtas, not the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, to make arrangements for incoming or outgoing visits of parliamentary delegations. I would be happy to see Oireachtas cooperation with any Palestinian representatives who are committed to the peaceful achievement of a two state solution. I would note that my Department currently advises Irish citizens strongly against all travel to the Gaza Strip for security reasons.
16. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the progress made on producing a new roster for election monitoring with an open transparent scoring form that will be available to those that were unsuccessful; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3667/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraInternational election monitoring missions play an important role in the promotion of democracy and human rights. Accordingly, my Department maintains a roster of potential participants in election monitoring missions. The aim is to ensure that, in response to requests for Irish participation in international missions observing elections and certain referenda, that there is a pool of adequately experienced people who could contribute effectively to such missions on either a short or long term basis. Irish observers participate primarily in missions organised by the European Union and also those organized by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). A roster of 200 people was established in May 2013 for a period of five years, following a review of the previous roster and a public call for applications. Plans are well advanced with regard to the establishment of a new roster to come into operation later this year. Final preparations are being put in place to permit a public call for applications to issue in the coming weeks. This will be published on both the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Irish Aid websites. Those who have previously expressed an interest in applying to join the roster will also be advised when the call is published. A candidate information booklet setting out all of the necessary details including the eligibility requirements and the process leading to the establishment of the roster will be made available to all applicants. My Department will run this campaign in accordance with best practice and candidate score sheets will be made available to the candidates concerned.
18. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent of the engagement of the Foreign Affairs Council regarding the continuing humanitarian crisis in Yemen caused by extreme violence; and his plans to engage with those that oppose the death sentence facing a person (details supplied). [3666/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra46. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the United Nations Children's Fund’s (UNICEF’s) latest report Born into War and that more than 11 million children now need humanitarian assistance; his views on an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia and other necessary measures to create a peaceful political solution to the conflict; and the way in which his Department will respond to UNICEF’s appeal for US $312 million in 2018 to continue responding to the urgent needs of children in Yemen. [3644/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 46 together.
I am extremely concerned about the current situation in Yemen, which is the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. The war is now ongoing for over one thousand days, and has had devastating consequences for civilians, with allegations of violations of human rights international humanitarian law, and significant loss of life. I am aware of the UNICEF report referred to by the Deputy, and share his concern that children are bearing the brunt of the conflict in Yemen, with nearly every child in the country currently in need of humanitarian assistance.
Ireland has provided over €11 million in humanitarian assistance to Yemen since 2015, and we are committed to maintaining support. In 2017, Irish funding of over €5 million was allocated to the UN’s Yemen Humanitarian Pooled Fund (YHPF), which supports NGOs and UN agencies, including UNICEF, which have the best capacity to deliver services on the ground. Furthermore, the EU is the largest humanitarian donor to Yemen and has provided over €170 million in aid since the conflict began, to which Ireland contributes via the EU Development Budget. In addition, Ireland provided €7.2 million in core global funding to UNICEF in 2017, and has pledged a further €7.2 million for 2018.
I believe that only way to bring about a long-term sustainable improvement in the situation for the Yemeni people is through a negotiated end to this conflict. Ireland fully supports the efforts of UN Special Envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed and his team, who are working towards a peace agreement.
With regard to an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia, Ireland does not have an arms industry and therefore does not export arms to Saudi Arabia. On the problems posed by arms transfers to conflict regions generally, our efforts are concentrated on universalisation and implementation of the 2014 Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), which has been signed and ratified by all EU Member States. In addition, the EU’s Common Position on Arms Exports contains 8 risk assessment criteria that all EU countries must apply to their licensing decisions for exports of military goods.
My predecessor, Minister Flanagan, raised concerns about the conduct of the war in Yemen and the humanitarian impact with Ministerial counterparts in Saudi Arabia and UAE on a number of occasions. More recently, officials from my Department met with the Saudi Embassy in Dublin late last year, and passed on my strong concerns in relation to humanitarian access. There have also been EU contacts with Saudi Arabia on this issue. At the Foreign Affairs Council on 11 December, I urged stronger EU action on humanitarian access in Yemen, and I will continue to raise these concerns with all appropriate interlocutors whenever opportunities arise.
As regards the death sentence of a Baha’i individual to which the Deputy has referred, I am concerned that this person appears to have been sentenced on the basis of his religious beliefs. Ireland strongly condemns all forms of persecution on the basis of religion or belief, and is unequivocal in its stance on the death penalty. Ireland calls on all parties in Yemen to immediately release all Baha’i detained due to their religious belief, and to cease the harassment to which they are subjected. We will continue to monitor the situation closely.
I would like to assure the Deputy that Ireland will continue to take every appropriate opportunity to press for a negotiated settlement to the conflict in Yemen, as well as respect for human rights and international humanitarian law, and improved humanitarian access.
19. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on his recent visit to Israel and Palestine; if he drew the attention of the Israeli Prime Minister to Ireland’s opposition to Israel’s occupation of Palestine and the apartheid regime that Israel enforces in Palestine; if he will request that the State officially recognises the state of Palestine; and if he will request the release of a person (details supplied). [3643/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraEarlier this month, I visited Israel and Palestine for the second time in my role Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. I met with key representatives of the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority, as well as leaders of other Israeli political parties, UN agencies, and non-governmental organisations. In my meetings with the Israeli authorities, I expressed Ireland’s concerns about the impact of the continuing occupation, including settlement construction, and the detention of minors. I had a frank discussion with Prime Minister Netanyahu about the prospects for returning to negotiations between the parties, and some of the impacts of the occupation on Palestinians, especially in Gaza.
I also had the opportunity to meet with Palestinian President Abbas, and Foreign Minister Malki, with whom I discussed the challenges facing the Palestinian people, the prospects for reinvigorating peace negotiations, and efforts to restore the Palestinian Authority to its role in Gaza – work that I encouraged and supported.
The Government is committed to recognising the State of Palestine as part of a lasting settlement of the conflict. Ireland has long looked forward to being able to recognize a sovereign Palestinian state existing in fact and not just in theory. Ireland normally recognises states that actually exist and control their territory, and so successive Irish Governments have seen recognition of Palestine coming as part of an overall peace agreement.
I have not yet concluded that immediate recognition by Ireland would be a helpful step, but I keep this matter under continuous review, particularly in the light of the views expressed by the Dáil and the Seanad in 2014.
During my visit to Israel and Palestine, I raised concerns about the detention of minors with the Israeli authorities. I am aware of the case raised by the Deputy and I refer you to my reply to Question [3504/18 – no. 8 on the order paper].
20. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade further to Parliamentary Question No. 44 of 13 December 2017, his plans to use his influence at EU and UN levels and via the EU delegation in Tegucigalpa, to request the Honduran Government to cease all violent attacks on citizens, human rights defenders, the media and the clergy and support fresh elections as called for by the Organisation of American States. [3669/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra42. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the violent repression of demonstrations that are protesting the disputed recent presidential election results in Honduras; his further views on the fact that the EU election observer mission to Honduras report has still not been released and that the Organisation of American States has called for fresh elections; when the EU election observer mission to Honduras report will be released; and his views on whether the inauguration of Juan Orlando Hernandez on 27 January 2018 should be postponed due to the alleged fraudulent November 2017 election and fresh elections called. [3646/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 42 together.
The loss of life and violence following elections which took place in Honduras on 26 November 2017 are a cause for concern. I have not hesitated to condemn unreservedly this or any violence perpetrated against those seeking to defend their rights or peacefully demonstrate. My sincere condolences are with the families of the victims and with all of those who have suffered violence in the aftermath of the elections.
Freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are the cornerstones of any functioning democracy and those rights must be guaranteed. All sides in Honduras must work within the political system to deliver the political reforms necessary to secure the trust of the Honduran people in the country’s institutions.
I echo the statement made on 19 January by the spokesperson for the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, calling for the Honduran authorities to “undertake an assessment of the rules of engagement, including the use of force, and for the security forces to use only necessary and proportionate force, in line with international law, in policing demonstrations”.
While Ireland does not have diplomatic representation in Honduras, officials at my Department engage closely with the European External Action Service working through its EU delegation in Tegucigalpa, and meet with human rights defenders and civil society organisations active in that country. Ireland contributed one long-term observer and one short-term observer to the EU Election Observer Mission to Honduras last year. This was facilitated by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Officials of the Department conducted a debrief with the Irish observers in early January. In its preliminary statement, the EU Observer Mission gave a generally positive evaluation of the organisation of the elections, while at the same time noting the negative public perception of the neutrality of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal and the disparity in resources enjoyed by one candidate compared with competitors.
The EU Observer Mission will deliver its final report on the election in the coming weeks. Given the technical nature of the reporting and related recommendations, it is not uncommon for such reports to take several months to finalise.
I urge the Government of Honduras to take on board and adopt any recommendations made by the EU Mission in order to help to restore much-needed public confidence in future electoral processes in the country.
I can assure the Deputies that we will continue to monitor the situation closely and maintain contact with actors on the ground in Honduras in the weeks and months ahead. Ireland remains committed to raising issues pertaining to the defence of human rights in Honduras both at EU and UN level.
21. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will further elaborate on his plans to double Ireland's global footprint by 2025; the criteria being used to determine the way in which this strategic plan will be achieved; if this plan has been fully costed; if funding has been ringfenced for this plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3685/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of the Taoiseach is leading a steering group of relevant Departments and agencies and is coordinating the Government’s plan to double Ireland’s global footprint by 2025. This will be ready for consideration by Government in the coming weeks, and it is envisaged that the initiative will be launched to coincide with the St Patrick’s Day period. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will feed into, and support, this process. Our expanded network will enhance Ireland’s visibility globally, extending our influence and will position us for trade and investment growth in new and existing markets. It will also benefit travelling citizens and engagement with the Diaspora and will involve reaching out to our Diaspora and exploring new and creative platforms for engagement. Expanding our presence and influence abroad is also about a broader re-doubling of our effort in the fight against global poverty and hunger and for sustainable development through the Irish Aid programme.
In addition to the broadening of our Diplomatic Network the Department is also taking steps to deepen the existing network, including in key areas to address the impact of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.
The question of costs for 2018 was considered as part of the annual Departmental budgetary process. €2 million was allocated in Budget 2018 to cover initial outlays incurred by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Any additional expenditure for future years will be decided via the Departmental budgetary process. Decisions on expenditure will be consistent with value for money principles and provide clear benefits for the State and will depend on a range of factors, including staff and accommodation needs.
Work has begun on the initial phase of the expansion of Ireland’s Diplomatic Network which includes the Government decision to open new Embassies in Santiago, Chile; Bogotá, Colombia; Amman, Jordan; and Wellington, New Zealand; and new Consulates General in Vancouver, Canada and Mumbai, India.
22. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when Ireland will officially recognise the state of Palestine; the reason for the delay in doing so in view of the unanimous passing of a motion by Dáil Éireann on 10 December 2014 requesting the Government to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3651/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs stated previously, in this House and elsewhere, the Government is committed to recognising the State of Palestine as part of a lasting settlement of the conflict. In all of my meetings during my recent visit to Israel and Palestine – with Israelis, Palestinians, and UN partners – I conveyed the importance the Irish people attach to the resolution of the Middle East Peace Process. Ireland, along with our EU partners, supports the achievement of a two state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that meets Israeli and Palestinian security needs and Palestinian aspirations for statehood and sovereignty, ends the occupation that began in 1967, and resolves all permanent status issues in order to end the conflict.Ireland has long looked forward to being able to recognise a sovereign Palestinian state existing in fact and not just in theory. Ireland normally recognises states that actually exist and control their territory, and so successive Irish Governments have seen recognition of Palestine coming as part of an overall peace agreement. However, in view of the long-term frustration of that ideal, and in particular in the light of the motions passed by the Dáil and Seanad in 2014, some have suggested early recognition now by Ireland of a state of Palestine, in advance of its actual achievement on the ground, could play a helpful part in advancing a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
There are many varied factors bearing on this question. They include the likely impact of such a move on the peace process, the possible value of recognition as a symbolic gesture, the likely impact on other initiatives and perception by other actors, and the likely effect on Ireland’s ongoing influence on the issue. In addition, should I decide to recommend early recognition to the Government, then as an essentially symbolic action the timing of such a move would also be a matter of careful judgment.
I have not yet concluded that immediate recognition by Ireland would be a helpful step, but I keep this matter under continuous review, in the light of the views expressed by the Dáil and the Seanad in 2014.
23. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of his negotiations, particularly those relating to the Border region of counties Cavan and Monaghan, in view of Brexit and the possible reintroduction of a hard border. [3638/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s priority of protecting the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts and the gains of the peace process, including avoiding a hard border on this island, has always been clear. In this regard, the Government welcomed the decision of the European Council on 15 December 2017 that sufficient progress had been made in phase one of the Article 50 negotiations. In phase one we secured concrete commitments on the protection of the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts and the gains of the peace process. We have also secured clear and strong commitments on avoiding a hard border and the UK has set out, for the first time, how this will be achieved.In the event that it is not possible to resolve the border issue as part of a wider EU-UK future relationship agreement, which has always been the Irish Government’s preference, or through specific solutions, the UK has committed that “in the absence of agreed solutions, the United Kingdom will maintain full alignment with those rules of the Internal Market and Customs Union which, now or in the future, support North-South cooperation, the all-island economy, and the protection of the 1998 agreement.” It has also been agreed that any arrangements put in place will be accompanied by effective mechanisms to ensure implementation and oversight. The importance of avoiding a hard border to people living in all the border counties, including Cavan and Monaghan, cannot be underestimated and the Government is acutely conscious of this. The North South cooperation we enjoy today brings tangible benefits to the daily lives of people in the border region and contributes to economic opportunity and development. It is also a very practical outworking of the peace process which allows for the normalisation of relationships between people across the island, to mutual benefit. It is for these reasons that there cannot be a return to border infrastructure of any kind on this island.
It has been agreed that the Irish specific issues will continue to be taken forward in a distinct strand of the negotiations in phase two. This will ensure that they will not be overlooked in the next phase and that work will continue on how to protect the Good Friday Agreement and the peace process and avoid a hard border, based on the agreements reached in phase one and in parallel with the wider negotiations on scoping out the EU’s future relationship with the UK. It has also been agreed to start drafting the relevant parts of the Withdrawal Agreement, which is an important next step as the Agreement will be legally binding and will reflect the principles and commitments agreed in phase one.
As a committed member of the EU, Ireland has engaged fully in the negotiations, as part of the EU27 team and will continue to do so in phase two.
24. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has expressed his views publicly or to the United States administration with regard to President Trump's recent derogatory remarks regarding African and Caribbean countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3496/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the reported remarks by President Trump on Thursday, 11 January. I obviously completely disagree with the tenor and substance of those alleged comments. The immigrant experience has particular resonance for Irish people and Irish emigrants know what it is to not feel welcomed in a strange country. Our own experience of emigration from Ireland - and, in recent years, immigration to Ireland - has also given us an appreciation of the very positive contribution that migrants can make to a society, regardless of their background or nationality. That experience is reflected in our relations with other States, including with the United States with whom we share a commitment to the values of democracy and the rule of law, as well as respect for the rights and dignity of all, irrespective of origin, religion, or ethnicity.
25. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he formally raised the expansion of illegal settlements with the Israeli Prime Minister during his recent visit to the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3689/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra41. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on his recent visit to Palestine and Israel; if the continuing building of settlements was discussed; and if he engaged with those working on reconciliation. [3668/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra43. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on his visit to Palestine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3493/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 25, 41 and 43 together.
Earlier this month I undertook a four-day working visit to the Middle East, with meetings in Cairo, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Ramallah and Gaza. In my visit to Israel and Palestine, I met with key representatives of the Government of Israel and of the Palestinian Authority, as well as leaders of other Israeli political parties, our partners in UN agencies, and non-governmental organisations. In all of these meetings I conveyed the importance the Irish people attach to the resolution of the Middle East Peace Process, something that has been a priority for me personally since I took office.
In my meetings with the Israeli authorities, I expressed Ireland’s concerns about the impact of the continuing occupation, including settlement construction. I had a frank discussion with Prime Minister Netanyahu about the prospects for returning to negotiations between the parties, and how Ireland and the EU can play a constructive role in the MEPP. I set out the urgent need to break the downward spiral of the situation in Gaza, which is clearly unsustainable, and talked about ways in which it could be alleviated. I put on record my view that to bar individuals from Israel, on the basis that they hold views critical of the Government's policies, is not the way to deal with criticism.
I also had the opportunity to meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and Foreign Minister Malki, with whom I discussed the challenges facing the Palestinian people, and the prospects for reinvigorating the effort towards peace in the Middle East. I also heard about work to restore the Palestinian Authority to its role in Gaza, giving Palestinians a unified Government, an effort that I encouraged and supported. The Irish Government has for many years consistently supported the objective of Palestinian reconciliation. I also met with the UNRWA Commissioner General, Pierre Krähenbühl, and with representatives of OCHA, and to hear first-hand about their work and the challenges they face.
I was very pleased to be able to meet in Gaza with the Palestinian Authority Minister for Public Works and Housing, as a sign that efforts to restore the Palestinian Authority role in Gaza are underway. I also met there with officials from UNRWA and the OHCHR, as well as representatives of civil society. I saw at first hand the effects of the blockade, and the effects that this is having on young people's prospects and hopes, leading to a dangerous sense of despair. I reaffirmed Ireland's commitment to working to end this situation.
26. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to international plans for the potential return of 100,000 Rohingya to Myanmar and that this is occurring without a clear understanding of their legal status and concrete protections for security and protection; the steps his Department is taking to assist Rohingya refugees; and his views on the detention of persons (details supplied) in Myanmar who were working on the military crackdown in Rakhine state and the ethnic cleansing of Rohingya. [3645/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the recent repatriation agreement signed between the Governments of Bangladesh and Myanmar to provide for the repatriation of refugees, predominantly members of the Myanmar Rohingya community, currently living in refugee camps in Bangladesh having fled Myanmar over the last number of months. Officials from my Department continue to closely monitor developments and the Government is very engaged on this issue both at EU level and with our international partners. While I welcome efforts being made to provide a path for the return of refugees to their place of origin in Myanmar, it is vital that any such efforts be carried out in a safe, dignified, and voluntary manner and that the UN be part of any repatriation scheme. I emphasise the importance of recognising the status of those who have fled as refugees and the full application of international refugee law to their individual cases; in particular insisting that any repatriation must be voluntary. In this regard I note recent news that efforts to begin repatriations this month have been delayed by the Government of Bangladesh. To ensure the safety and dignity of those returning, repatriations should only occur when there are appropriate conditions created on the ground in Rakhine State, in line with the findings of the Annan Commission and with the assistance of the international community.
Ireland is committed to supporting these refugees and the international humanitarian response triggered by the mass movement of refugees into Bangladesh. Last October, we pledged €2m in direct support at the Pledging Conference for the Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Geneva. €1m was provided in 2017, and an additional €1m will be allocated in 2018. In addition Ireland’s Rapid Response Corps are providing humanitarian expertise to the international response.
Ireland will continue to engage at a national level, through our EU membership and with the broader international community to press for a positive and long-term solution to the situation in Rakhine State, including for the Rohingya community, and for the large number of refugees who are now situated in Bangladesh.
The recent detention of two Reuters journalists in Yangon is also a cause of serious concern. Freedom of the press and media is a cornerstone of any democracy, and Ireland opposes any attempts to curtail these freedoms. We expect the Myanmar authorities to ensure the full protection of their rights and to release the journalists as quickly as possible.
27. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he or his officials have discussed phase two of the Brexit negotiations with the British Government at ministerial or official level. [3055/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraBrexit is an issue that naturally arises during the frequent bilateral contacts which I, my government colleagues and our officials have with our UK counterparts. While stressing that Ireland is a member of the EU27 and that the issues involved can only be substantively considered and addressed through the ongoing EU-UK negotiations, I have welcomed the opportunity that such discussions have provided to build the UK’s understanding of Ireland’s concerns and priorities with regard to the Irish-specific issues as well as the future EU-UK relationship. I have discussed Brexit with both the current Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Karen Bradley, and her predecessor, James Brokenshire. Engagements at Ministerial level in recent months where Brexit has featured on the agenda have included meetings with the UK’s Secretary of State for Exiting the EU, David Davis, with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond, and with the UK’s Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson.
30. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way in which interested persons from County Kildare and surrounding counties can contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the future of Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3564/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Taoiseach launched the Citizens’ Dialogue on the future of Europe in November. The dialogue was established to address the needs and concerns of Irish citizens on the future direction of the European Union and the feedback from these sessions will help formulate our own contribution to the wider European debate. My colleague the Minister for European Affairs, Helen McEntee T.D., is leading on the citizens’ dialogue and has written to all Oireachtas members setting out in detail how the Citizens’ Dialogue process will work, and how people can get involved.The first session will be in Galway next month and other venues will be Cork, Donegal and Meath. The final dialogue will be held in Dublin on Europe Day, 9 May. A website – www.dfa.ie/eu - and a twitter handle #futureofeurope have been set up to facilitate the process. Those interested in attending at any of the above venues should register online. We would be very pleased if all members of the Oireachtas could help spread the work and encourage the widest possible participation at each session.
31. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the contact which has been made with the UN regarding the attacks on 9 January 2018 by Israeli missiles on Syrian army positions near Damascus (details supplied); if he has requested the UN Security Council to investigate these breaches of international peace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3365/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the attack on an arms depot outside Damascus on 9 January and I understand that the Syrian Foreign Ministry has written to the UN Security Council and UN Secretary-General regarding this incident. The conflict in Syria, which is now approaching its eighth year, has been extremely destabilising for the wider region. I call on all parties to exercise restraint in order to avoid any further destabilisation of the region.I had the opportunity to discuss the conflict and its impact during my recent visit to the Middle East, including with the Secretary General of the League of Arab States and the Egyptian Foreign Minister. Clearly, a comprehensive, inclusive political solution to the conflict is urgently needed, both to end the suffering of the Syrian people and to prevent any further turmoil in the region. The UN is leading political negotiations to end the conflict based on the 2012 Geneva Communique and UN Security Council resolution 2254, which calls for an end to violence; release of political prisoners; formation of a transitional governing body with executive powers and a constitutional reform process. Ireland fully supports this process and the work of UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura. The EU provides direct assistance to the UN-led Geneva peace talks and has launched, in coordination with the UN, an initiative to develop political dialogue with key actors from the region to identify common ground.
Ireland and the EU also provide support, including financial support, to a broad range of mechanisms to ensure legal accountability for all war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Syria. Attacks on civilians, including attacks on medical facilities and civilian infrastructure, attacks resulting in the deaths of children and the use of chemical weapons are particularly horrifying features of this tragic conflict.
Ireland has consistently called for the situation in Syria to be referred to the ICC, and in 2016, Ireland and a group of like-minded countries successfully pushed for a UN General Assembly resolution establishing an International Impartial and Independent Mechanism to assist in the investigation and prosecution of persons responsible for the most serious crimes under international law committed in Syria. Ireland made a contribution of €100,000 to support the establishment of this mechanism last year.
I participated in the discussion at the December EU Foreign Affairs Council on the discussion of the regional situation in the Middle East, including of course the urgent need for progress towards peace in Syria. I joined colleagues in stressing the primacy of the UN-led Geneva process and the need for an inclusive political transition in Syria.
32. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to open a regional passport office in the Border region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3686/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Passport Service offers a range of convenient channels for submission of passport applications by Irish citizens, at home and abroad. Advice and guidance on these channels and other useful information on passports is available on the Department’s website at https://www.dfa.ie/passports The award-winning online Passport Renewal Service for adults was launched in March 2017 and offers the convenience of an online application system 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for Irish citizens anywhere in the world, without the need for application forms, printed photos or witnesses. People who cannot or do not wish to apply online have the option of applying through their local post office. In 2017, over 400,000 citizens availed of this option and submitted their passport application through the network of more than one thousand post offices across the State. The Northern Ireland Passport Express service offers an equivalent service to those living in Northern Ireland from more than 70 of its post offices.
Bearing in mind the availability of both the online and postal application channels, very few citizens living in the island of Ireland are required to travel a significant distance in order to apply for their passport.
In the relatively small number of cases where citizens need to travel very urgently and do not have a valid passport, the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork offer an appointment service.
The Passport Service keeps passport demand under review on an ongoing basis. It is already planned to further extend the online application facility to all citizens, including first-time applicants and children, by 2019.
In all the circumstances, I am satisfied that the range of service options available meets the current needs of passport applicants.
33. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will raise the issue of human rights on his official visit to China and Hong Kong for St Patrick's Day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3497/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland regularly raises human rights issues with third countries, including with the People’s Republic of China. Human rights issues are discussed with the Chinese authorities during bilateral meetings, including at the highest levels such as the visit of Premier Li Keqiang to Ireland in 2015; through EU engagement with China; and through multilateral channels. As planning is still in the early stages for my visit to China for St Patrick’s Day 2018, it is not yet possible for me to comment precisely on the programme. The Deputy will note that the purpose of Ministerial visits overseas for St Patrick’s Day is to promote Ireland and Irish business across the world. The promotion of Ireland’s “global footprint” expansion has also been identified as a key priority this year, as well as the reinforcing of messages on Brexit, Northern Ireland, Ireland’s campaign to become a member of the UN Security Council in 2021-22, and the strength of the Irish economy.
34. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the turnaround time for passport applications processed through the Cork passport office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3647/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Passport Service located in my Department is one unified service composed of 3 constituent offices in Dublin (Balbriggan and Mount Street) and Cork. The distribution of work across the 3 passport offices does not impact on members of the public or in any way limit the options available to the public in terms of passport application channels. Under the current distribution of tasks across the Service, all Passport Express applications are now processed in the Balbriggan office, while the Cork office processes applications from Northern Ireland and Great Britain, as well as applications submitted at Ireland’s network of Embassies and Consulates worldwide. Online passport renewal applications are processed in the Mount Street office. The Mount Street and Cork public offices also continue to accept applications from all categories of applicants, by appointment, at the public counter and, where appropriate, facilitate the issuance of emergency passports. The processing times for all applications is updated weekly on the Passport Service website www.dfa.ie/passporttracking/turnaroundtimes/.
The Online Passport Renewal Service is available for adult Irish citizens renewing their passport and is available twenty four hours a day, seven days a week from anywhere in the world. The target turnaround time for Online Passport Renewal applications is 10 days plus postage – online applications are currently being processed and completed well below this deadline.
The Passport Service aims to process applications for renewal of passports submitted via Passport Express within 15 working days. The current turnaround times for both renewal and first time applications submitted through Passport Express is within our target timeframe at 15 working days. Northern Ireland Passport Express renewal applications are currently being processed in 13 working days, with first time applications and those with lost/stolen passports processed in 15 working days.
The average processing time for renewal applications from Great Britain is 21 working days, while first time applicants and those with lost/stolen passports are currently being processed in 31 working days. Applications submitted via Ireland’s network of Embassies and Consulates abroad are currently being processed in 29 working days.
Different categories of applications take longer to process, due to additional checks and/or additional time in transit, such as first time applicants, those applying via overseas Embassies and Consulates as well as those with lost/stolen passports.
The Passport Service monitors demand and resources on an ongoing basis and continues to takes all possible steps to ensure an effective service to the public.
The majority of applications submitted at the Cork public counter are from applicants travelling inside 15 working days. Depending on travel needs, these applications are generally processed within 3 – 10 working days.
The Passport Service strongly advises all applicants to check their passport when making travel plans, to check the Passport Service website www.dfa.ie/passport for the most appropriate channel through which to submit their application and to allow a minimum of 6 weeks when applying for their passport.
35. Deputy John Curran asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the efforts being made on the needs of the undocumented Irish in the United States of America; the extent to which ongoing negotiations continue to take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3690/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government continues to seek a solution to the plight of thousands of undocumented Irish citizens resident in the US, and avails of all opportunities to raise US immigration reform and the status of the undocumented Irish with the US administration and with contacts on Capitol Hill. The forthcoming Ministerial visits to the United States over the St. Patrick’s Day period will provide an important opportunity to raise this issue with key stakeholders across the United States, including in Washington, D.C. Officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, working both here and in the US, are engaged on this important issue on an ongoing basis and are always on the alert for any new initiatives that might be under consideration by the US authorities, and how these might benefit Irish citizens. In this regard, officials based at our Embassy in D.C. have been working closely with Deputy John Deasy in his role as the Government’s Special Envoy to Congress on the Undocumented. They also remain in regular contact with Ireland’s friends in the Administration and on Capitol Hill. Deputy Deasy is in Washington, D.C. this week, 22-26 January, to conduct a series of meetings on the issue of the undocumented.
I can assure the Deputy that officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, both here and in Washington, D.C., will, under my direction, continue to give priority to this issue, mindful of its importance to the thousands of undocumented and to their families in Ireland.
36. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on his meeting with the new British Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Ms Karen Bradley, in London on 12 January 2018; if he drew her attention to the fact that the political institutions will only work if they are based on delivering equality, integrity and respect for all; and the steps his Department is taking to ensure that the Good Friday Agreement and subsequent agreements are implemented in full. [3642/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the Government, working with the British Government, has spared no effort in supporting and facilitating talks on the formation of a new Executive, over many months.However, devolved power-sharing government can only operate on the basis of an agreement reached between the two largest parties, while the other parties represented in the Assembly also have a critical role to play here. I met with the newly-appointed Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Karen Bradley, in London on 12 January and in Belfast on 18 January. We discussed how both Governments, as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, can support the parties in resolving the outstanding issues and moving ahead to form a new Executive.
The Secretary of State and I agree that there remain challenges for the parties in reaching that agreement, but we also recognise the wish of each of the parties to see the devolved power-sharing institutions continuing to operate.
Northern Ireland has now been without a functioning devolved government for more than a year. This is not a position that can be sustained for much longer.
Secretary of State Bradley and I held a round of meetings with the parties at Stormont yesterday, commencing a further round of intensive engagement to secure the formation of a new Executive.
On the basis of this engagement with the parties yesterday and in view of the progress that has been made in discussions in various formats over recent months, I continue to believe that an agreement to form a new Executive can be achieved.
We all have a responsibility over the coming weeks to make every possible effort to secure the effective operation of the devolved power-sharing institutions.
Secretary of State Bradley and I will work in partnership to achieve this and spare no effort in seeking a return to devolved power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, which is at the heart of the Good Friday Agreement.
The Government has consistently affirmed our unwavering commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, and our determination to secure the effective operation of all of its institutions. The Government is also strongly committed to the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, as reflected in the Programme for Partnership Government. It is through the operation of the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement that the full implementation of the Agreement can be most effectively and comprehensively achieved.
The Taoiseach and I will therefore continue to engage with the British Government and the parties in Northern Ireland in the period immediately ahead to support the urgent formation of a new Executive by the mandated political parties.
