Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:21. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent engagement with the President of the European Parliament, Mr. Antonio Tajani. [45717/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraOfficial Engagements
Ceisteanna (21)
Freagraí scríofa
I had a bilateral meeting with the President of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, in the margins of the European Council on 18 October.
We discussed the state of play in the Brexit negotiations between the EU and the U.K. I thanked President Tajani for his ongoing strong solidarity in relation to our concerns and reiterated the need to ensure a legally operable and robust backstop in the Withdrawal Agreement.
I am pleased that agreement was subsequently reached at negotiator level on the draft Withdrawal Agreement and an outline of the Joint Political Declaration on the future relationship.
I look forward to attending the special meeting of the European Council this Sunday, where it is hoped that the 27 EU leaders will formally endorse the draft Withdrawal Agreement and Joint Political Declaration.
Questions Nos. 22 to 28, inclusive, resubmitted.
Northern Ireland
Ceisteanna (29)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:29. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent meeting with the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, Ms Arlene Foster. [45718/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I met the leader of the DUP Ms Arlene Foster on October 15. We discussed many issues including the current political situation in Northern Ireland and Brexit.
I emphasised the Government’s full commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, and our continuing determination to secure the effective operation of all of its institutions. We discussed what could be done to get the institutions in Northern Ireland up and running again.
I re-iterated to Ms Foster that the Government wants to put a political process in place that can secure an agreement on the operation of the devolved institutions and that we will continue to engage with the British Government and the political parties in Northern Ireland to seek urgent progress in the period immediately ahead.
We agreed that we can continue to build on existing practical North South co-operation.
We also discussed Brexit including negotiations on the backstop to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland.
Questions Nos. 30 to 33, inclusive, resubmitted.
Official Engagements
Ceisteanna (34)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:34. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent visit to County Cavan; the engagements he undertook; and if he met with stakeholders to discuss the impact of Brexit. [45719/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I visited Counties Cavan and Monaghan on Friday 12th of October when I had a number of different engagements.
In the morning, I visited the Cavan County Museum in Ballyjamesduff, the new Autism Unit in Bailieborough Community School and Bailieborough Courthouse.
In the afternoon, I visited Cootehill where I had the pleasure of turning the sod on the new Holy Family School. Finally, I spoke at a Cross-Border Childcare Conference in Emyvale, Co. Monaghan.
While I had no formal meetings with business people on this visit, I did of course meet a wide variety of invited guests and members of the public at the events I attended. During the course of my visit Brexit was to the fore.
The Cross Border Childcare Conference afforded me the opportunity to engage with those attending on the subject of Brexit.
Questions Nos. 35 and 36 resubmitted.
National Digital Strategy
Ceisteanna (37)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:37. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the recently announced consultation process in respect of the national digital strategy. [46732/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
A new overarching National Digital Strategy is currently in development. The Strategy will help Ireland to maximise the economic and societal benefits from ongoing digitalisation and its transformative effects.
In 2013, Ireland’s previous National Digital Strategy was launched, and focused on Doing more with Digital. Five years on, the Government is seeking to develop a new National Digital Strategy to take full advantage of the evolving opportunities of digital transformation, and deal with the many challenges thrown up by the swift pace of technological advancement.
The Strategy is being led as a shared effort by the Department of the Taoiseach; Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment; Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation; and the Office of the Chief Information Officer in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, reflecting the spread of areas it will cover.
An Interdepartmental Group, which includes representatives from all Departments, is assisting the development of the Strategy ensuring a comprehensive whole-of-Government approach.
As committed to in the Action Plan for Jobs, a Framework for Developing the new National Digital Strategy has been completed, which went to Government in July, and reflects preliminary stakeholder consultations with civic society, enterprise representatives, industry, education providers and academia.
A public consultation, to allow citizens to feed in and influence the development of the Strategy, is currently underway and will run for a month until Friday, November 23rd. Citizens can submit their views online, by email or by post.
The public’s submissions will help us carve out the issues that matter to the people of Ireland, and create a strong new National Digital Strategy based on the real concerns, needs and ambitions of the country.
In parallel with the public consultation, consultation with stakeholders and sectoral specialists is taking place, to further inform the development of the Strategy.
The final Strategy will map out how we can positively embrace digital advances and provide for a national narrative to understand the impacts of digital technology on Ireland.
Questions Nos. 38 to 40, inclusive, resubmitted.
Official Engagements
Ceisteanna (41)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:41. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his attendance at the recent ASEM summit. [46733/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I attended the 12th ASEM Summit, or Asia - Europe Meeting, on the 18th and 19th of October in Brussels.
The focus of the recent Summit was on improving trade and connectivity between Europe and Asia, and on reinforcing the multilateral, rules-based system of governance on issues like international trade, peace and security, sustainable development and climate change.
As well as attending the plenary sessions, I held bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Solberg of Norway, President Battulga of Mongolia and the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dr. Wan Azizah, focused on strengthening bilateral relations. I also raised Ireland's candidature for an elected seat on the UN Security Council for the term 2021-2022.
I engaged informally with a number of other leaders including Chinese Premier Li, Japanese Prime Minister Abe, Russian Prime Minister Medvedev, Vice President of India Naidu, and the foreign ministers or special envoys of Laos, Myanmar, Australia, Kazakhstan and New Zealand. These were primarily courtesy conversations about bilateral relations, though in several instances I raised Ireland's candidacy for the UN Security Council.
Questions Nos. 42 and 43 resubmitted.
Departmental Advertising Expenditure
Ceisteanna (44)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:44. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the proposed budget for social media advertising in his Department for 2019. [46734/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The cost for any social media advertising undertaken in 2019 will be met from my Department's administrative budget. Costs incurred are expected to be significantly less than the spend on digital advertising in 2018 which is estimated at approximately €450,000.
Question No. 45 resubmitted.
Official Engagements
Ceisteanna (46)
Eamon Ryan
Ceist:46. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his recent visit to County Derry. [45930/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I visited Derry City on Friday 26th October where I had several engagements.
I was pleased to visit the Apprentice Boys Headquarters and Museum where I enjoyed a tour of the Museum. I also had the opportunity to meet the Chair of the Management Committee Mr William Moore and a number of his colleagues.
I then visited Creggan Enterprises in the Rath Mór Centre in the Creggan where I spoke with local business people and members of the community. I also met those involved in projects operating from the Centre and met briefly with the local MP, Ms Elisha McCallion.
Finally, that evening I spoke at the St Columb’s College Annual Dinner which this year was in honour of one of St Columb’s former students, Mr Mark Durkan.
Questions Nos. 76 to 83, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 47 to 75, inclusive, resubmitted.
Human Rights
Ceisteanna (84)
Maureen O'Sullivan
Ceist:84. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way in which concerns regarding the safe repatriation of the Rohingya to Myanmar can be addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48085/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Since military security operations began in Rakhine State, Myanmar in August 2017, approximately 720,000 refugees, mostly Rohingya, have fled to Bangladesh. The people and government of Bangladesh have demonstrated extraordinary generosity in receiving such a large influx of refugees in very difficult circumstances. I remain very concerned at the ongoing situation in Myanmar and the plight of these refugees who are living in extremely precarious conditions in overcrowded refugee camps. Ireland remains unwavering in its wish to see conditions that will enable the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of these Rohingya refugees to their places of origin in Myanmar in compliance with international human rights norms and the principle of non-refoulement.
I note that the signing of Memoranda of Understanding on the repatriation of the Rohingya between Myanmar and Bangladesh and between Myanmar and the UNDP and UNHCR have been important first steps on this path of return.
However, current conditions on the ground in Myanmar are not conducive to allow for the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation of members of the Rohingya community.
In that regard, I am concerned by the recent arrangement between Myanmar and Bangladesh to begin the return of up to 5,000 refugees in the near future. I note the concerns expressed by UNHCR, who are on-the-ground, and the fact that UN agencies have not been included in these discussions. I also note concerning reports that many of the refugees concerned do not wish to be repatriated given conditions on the ground in Rakhine State.
Therefore, I call on Myanmar and Bangladesh to reconsider this arrangement and to take the necessary steps to create such conditions before taking any further or premature steps towards repatriation. I urge the parties to undertake further dialogue with international partners while also allowing the voices of the refugee community to play a key role in determining their future.
I also echo the calls for the full implementation of the findings of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State.
Human Rights Cases
Ceisteanna (85)
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:85. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he or his officials have contacted his Pakistani counterpart in relation to the treatment of a person (details supplied) and the refusal to allow them to leave Pakistan until the verdict is reviewed; if he has considered offering asylum to the person and their family; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48122/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. Ireland works within and alongside the EU and UN to address the persecution of religious minorities wherever it occurs. I am, of course, aware of the case of Asia Bibi, a Pakistani woman convicted in 2010 of Blasphemy and sentenced to death. Following an appeal, the Supreme Court of Pakistan recently overturned her conviction.
Minister Flanagan raised concerns on the blasphemy laws with his Pakistani counterpart on the margins of the UN General Assembly in September 2016. Minister Flanagan also raised the case with the Pakistani Chargé d’Affaires in January 2016. The European Union has also raised the case with the Pakistani authorities. I continue to follow developments in the case and strongly condemn all forms of persecution on the basis of religion or belief, irrespective of where they occur and who the victims are.
Ireland attaches great importance to the fundamental human rights of freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief. I am well aware of the vulnerable situation of persons belonging to religious minorities in Pakistan and will continue to raise the issue with the Pakistan Government as well as through the framework and mechanisms of the European Union and the United Nations.
Ms. Bibi has not applied for asylum in Ireland to date. Any request for international protection in Ireland from Ms. Bibi would be looked upon favourably by the Minister for Justice and Equality.
Passport Services
Ceisteanna (86)
Noel Rock
Ceist:86. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to reinstate the free passport for old age pensioners in view of the fact that this is a form of official identification for some pensioners that do not hold driver licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48087/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Passport Service does not provide a reduced fee to any category of adult applicant for a passport, whether for the renewal of a passport or for a first time application. A reduced fee is applied on applications for passports for minors in recognition of the fact that a minor’s passport is valid for only five years. Most adult passports will be issued for a period of ten years. I have asked my staff to review the cost of the standard ten year adult Irish passport and to compare it to the cost of a similar passport in many other jurisdictions.
I am satisfied that, at a cost of €80, which breaks down to €8 per year, the Irish passport fee compares favourably with the services offered elsewhere. For example, an adult would have to pay €8.50 per year for a British passport, €8.60 per year for a French passport, €9.70 per year for an American passport and €18.10 per year for an Australian passport.
Based on 2017 application volumes, the Passport Service has calculated the potential annual cost of eliminating the passport application fee for applicants over 65 years of age to be over €6.2m. Given that any shortfall in revenue would have to be met by the taxpayer, a decision to waive or reduce the application fee for any category of applicant would require careful consideration. It is important to ensure that the major upgrades to the passport service technology platforms and business processes as well as significant customer service improvements which have taken place in recent years can be maintained and further developed.
In the context of the services provided by the Passport Service, I would like to draw attention to the well-advanced Passport Reform Programme, one element of which is an online passport application service which was launched on 30 March 2017.
To date over 273,000 adults have renewed their passport using this online facility. At present, the online passport application service accommodates adult passport renewal applications and passport card applications. The Passport Service is in the process of expanding this service further by the end of 2018.
The online passport application service enables adults to renew their passports within ten working days without the need for paperwork or witnesses. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from anywhere in the world. While the online service does not distinguish between applicants’ based on age, applicants can be assured that the online system will be the cheapest as well as the most efficient, secure and convenient way to apply to renew their passport.
Northern Ireland
Ceisteanna (87)
Seán Crowe
Ceist:87. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if an official from his Department attended the inquest into the Ballymurphy massacre; and the supports he is providing to those persons in the pursuit of truth and justice for their loved ones killed by the British army in the massacre. [48135/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government has supported the long campaign of the Ballymurphy families, including in bringing forward the All-Party Dáil Motion in 2015, and the Government will continue to stand in solidarity with the families.I have welcomed the new inquest in Belfast which commenced on 12 November. An official of my Department attended the opening day of the inquest, to express the Government’s continuing solidarity with the families as they commence the extremely difficult process of a coronial inquiry into the deaths of their family members. Like so many families from both communities in Northern Ireland, they deserve to establish the truth of what happened to their loved ones. I sincerely hope that this new inquest will provide the families with answers and the truth of what happened, which they are still seeking after forty-seven years.
I met with the Ballymurphy families in Belfast on 22 November last year to hear their views and experiences and to confirm the Government’s support for their campaign. I and my predecessors as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade have also consistently raised the Ballymurphy case with the British Government. The Government has underlined the requirement for all Troubles-related deaths - whatever the circumstances, and whoever is responsible - to be investigated in a manner that is consistent with the European Convention on Human Rights.
I have directed officials from my Department to monitor developments with the Ballymurphy inquest closely and to remain in contact with the families as the inquiry proceeds over the coming months.
I will also continue to engage with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and the leaders of the political parties in Northern Ireland to seek urgent further progress with the implementation of the Stormont House Agreement legacy framework and with the adequate resourcing of legacy inquests in Northern Ireland, consistent with the requirements of Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Human Rights
Ceisteanna (88)
Seán Crowe
Ceist:88. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he is continuing to raise the persecution of LGBT citizens in Tanzania with his Tanzanian counterpart; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is deep concern for the safety and security of LGBT citizens in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48133/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
‘The Global Island: Ireland’s Foreign Policy For Changing World’ states clearly that: “We are committed to promoting the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals, who continue to suffer disproportionate levels of violence and face systemic discrimination in many countries.” There is no situation in which a person’s fundamental human rights should be prejudiced because of their sexual orientation.
This clear policy informed the Tánaiste’s letter to the Foreign Minister of Tanzania, Mr Augustine Mahiga, immediately upon learning of statements by the Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner targeting members of the LGBTI+ community. The Tánaiste called upon the Tanzanian Government to ensure the protection of LGBTI+ people in line with Tanzania’s national and international human rights commitments.
Minister Mahiga subsequently issued a formal statement, distancing his Government from the Regional Commissioner’s comments and reiterating Tanzania’s commitment to uphold its international human rights obligations.
My Department, including through the Embassy of Ireland in Dar es Salaam, is monitoring the situation in Tanzania and working closely with partners in support of the protection and promotion of human rights.
The EU and its Member States consistently raise concerns with many countries on changing human rights environments, including stressing the importance of free speech. My officials are contributing to a broad review of EU relations with Tanzania which the EU agreed due to the changing context in Tanzania. This review is currently ongoing.
Brexit Issues
Ceisteanna (89)
Aindrias Moynihan
Ceist:89. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the potential impact of Brexit on County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48114/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I refer the Deputy to my earlier reply to Priority Question Number 5, in relation to the Government’s contingency and preparedness planning for all Brexit scenarios.This planning, as appropriate, includes any specific responses necessary according to regional needs and at the county level, including those of Cork, of which I am, of course, acutely aware. As part of the Government’s broader Getting Ireland Brexit Ready public information campaign, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and I launched the first of an ongoing series of public outreach events, which was held in Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 5 October.
Bringing together individual Government Departments and Agencies under one roof, the event highlighted the existing supports and resources that are available from across Government to assist businesses in County Cork and beyond with their preparations for Brexit.
Human Rights
Ceisteanna (90, 99)
Maureen O'Sullivan
Ceist:90. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will seek consensus at EU level to add the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to an arms embargo list through the EU common position on arms trade in view of the current humanitarian situation in Yemen and the ongoing Saudi led offensive causing multiple deaths to civilians; and his views on whether many of the EU partners that trade in arms with Saudi Arabia are culpable of prolonging the conflict. [48084/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Clare Daly
Ceist:99. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps he will take at EU level to lobby for the imposition of an EU wide arms embargo on Saudi Arabia in view of both of the atrocities being committed by that country in Yemen and in view of the fact that Germany has suspended arms sales to Saudi Arabia and Austria has called for an EU wide ban. [48079/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 90 and 99 together.
I have already answered a number of questions setting out my views on the situation in Yemen, and the actions which Ireland, the EU and UN are taking in this regard.
In relation to the specific question of an arms embargo, decisions at EU level to stop exports of arms require the agreement of all EU Member States. Although some have called for it, there is currently no consensus at EU level on an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia, or any member of the Coalition. I am aware that some Member States, including Germany, have decided to halt arms exports for the present.
For now, Irish efforts are concentrated on ensuring the effective implementation of Export Control Regimes and the implementation of the 2014 Arms Trade Treaty, which has been signed and ratified by all EU Member States, and requires States to assess the potential that arms exports could be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian or human rights law, and to consider measures to mitigate the risk of these violations.
I firmly believe that effective measures to monitor the trade of arms and other dual use goods are necessary to ensure that the highest standards in international arms controls are met, and to tackle the illicit trade in arms.
As a member of multiple disarmament and non-proliferation Treaties and Conventions, Ireland has a responsibility to ensure that adequate domestic controls are implemented.
All exports of goods from Ireland which are dual-use or have a military classification are subject to strict assessment on a case by case basis against the eight criteria contained in the EU Code of Conduct on Arms Exports. The Department of Business Enterprise and Innovation is the lead Department on issuing export licenses. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade plays a role in the assessment of export licenses for military rated and dual use goods, with the aim of ensuring that:
The goods are destined for the country and end-user as stated on the licence application;
The stated end-user will use the goods for a legitimate purpose, as detailed in the end-user certificate.
That there is no risk the goods may diverted to end users of concern, or that the goods may be used for human rights suppression.
Ireland will continue to assess all military rated and dual use goods license applications on a case by case base, ensuring compliance with our international obligations.
Questions Nos. 91 and 92 answered with Question No. 81.
United Nations
Ceisteanna (93)
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:93. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of Ireland's contribution to the campaign for a United Nations parliamentary assembly; if a parliamentary assembly will be inaugurated in time for the 75th anniversary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47994/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Ireland has been strongly committed to the values and principles of the UN Charter, since joining the United Nations in 1955.
As a strong supporter of the UN, for more than 60 years, Ireland continues to advocate, through a range of fora, for reform of the UN’s structures and systems. Reform, in the political and administrative fields, is necessary to furnish the United Nations with the necessary tools and mechanisms to respond to the many significant and interlinked global challenges faced by the UN’s member states.
Ireland is committed, in this context, to consider proposals seeking to improve the effectiveness of the UN and the valuable contribution it can make to the peace, stability and development of all nations.
Ireland remains open-minded to the concept of a UN Parliamentary Assembly in the context of overall UN reform. I have taken note of the declaration adopted last month at the 42nd Plenary Meeting of the World Forum of United Nations Associations in the Dominican Republic, which called for the establishment of a UN Parliamentary Assembly. I also recognise the important contribution of Deputy Broughan to the recently established Parliamentary Group for a United Nations Parliamentary Association.
I am conscious that those who advocate the establishment of a UN Parliamentary Assembly are doing so from the perspective of seeking increase transparency and oversight of the UN. My Department is open to hearing further from those advocating for a Parliamentary Assembly.
The United Nations will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2020. In the lead-up to this occasion, Ireland is committed to supporting UN reform measures that will improve the way the organisation functions so that the objectives of the United Nations Charter, which we all share, can be reached.
State Visits
Ceisteanna (94)
Michael Moynihan
Ceist:94. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if there has been further indication of a possible visit from President Trump. [41064/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
It was announced by the White House on 31 August last that the US President proposed to visit Ireland in November as part of his trip to Europe to commemorate the end of the First World War. As the Deputy will be aware, this visit was subsequently postponed, with the US Administration citing scheduling reasons. There are frequent and ongoing contacts between the Government and the US Administration at Ministerial and official level on the wide range of issues of mutual interest, and on international issues. To date, we have not received an indication, through these contacts, of when a possible future visit from President Trump might take place.
The visit of any US President offers an opportunity to reinforce the strong historic, economic, cultural and family ties shared by the US and Ireland - as well as an opportunity for good, open discussions on current issues. The US President is of course welcome to visit Ireland and has a standing invitation to do so, just as the Irish have a standing invitation to Washington DC every March.
I discussed Ireland-EU-US relations earlier this month with my colleagues in Government. The importance of continued engagement at Ministerial and official level with US leaders, and on sectoral issues of mutual interest, was noted - as was the desirability of increasing the numbers of US high level visits to Ireland in the coming years.
In the context of a changing transatlantic relationship, this enhanced and targeted engagement is critical, as we seek to protect and promote Ireland’s values, interests and prosperity. Through this engagement, we will increasingly seek to position Ireland as the transatlantic bridge between the US and the EU.
The Government’s forthcoming Strategy on the US and Canada - which I look forward to bringing to Cabinet in the coming weeks and launching in the US early in 2019 - will set out a framework for action in this regard aimed at maximising the potential of our relationship now and into the future.
Passport Applications
Ceisteanna (95)
John Curran
Ceist:95. Deputy John Curran asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the progress being made on the expansion of new online passport application services; when these new services are expected to be launched; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48128/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Passport Online service was first launched on 30 March 2017 to facilitate the online renewal of the majority of adult passport types. To date, over 288,000 adults have renewed their passport using the online service. I am pleased to inform you that the Passport Online service will be expanded at the end of this month to encompass online renewals for children.
In the interest of child protection and in order to ensure the highest level of integrity for the passport renewal process, the online renewal of a child’s passport will continue to require that a child’s identity is verified and that the consent of each of the child’s legal guardians is received before a passport is issued.
The Passport Service has developed a pre-populated Child Passport Identity and Consent Form which will be generated at the end of the online process. Guardians will be required to print this form, have the child’s identity verified by an appropriate witness, and have the consent of all guardians witnessed. Guardians will then need to submit the form, along with any other required documents to the Passport Service in order to commence the processing of the application. There is a significant list of appropriate witnesses who can complete both of these tasks.
Guardians who are renewing their child’s passport will also be able to apply for a passport card for their child for the first time. These cards will be valid for the same period as the child’s passport book and valid for travel in the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
The expanded service will also allow for other adult renewal categories such as those changing their name and those requiring an observation on their passport.
I would urge applicants wishing to renew their passports, whether residing in Ireland or overseas, to avail of the online service where possible.
Humanitarian Aid
Ceisteanna (96)
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:96. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he along with his EU and UN colleagues continue to press for humanitarian assistance in the various conflict zones globally; if consideration continues to be given to the provision of safe or protective havens for civilian communities fleeing from war, genocide and terrorism; the extent to which peacekeeping interventions are being considered in the most sensitive war zones; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48117/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The number and complexity of humanitarian crises globally has increased in recent years, with the UN estimating that over 130 million people are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance and protection. Conflict is the most significant driver of this increased need.
Ireland prioritises the provision of needs based, principled humanitarian aid to high profile humanitarian crises such as Syria but also to ‘forgotten crises’ which receive less attention such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic and Sudan. Over 90% of Ireland’s humanitarian funding in 2017 was directed in support of those affected by conflict.
Critical to maximising Ireland’s response is our strong and enduring commitment to effective multilateralism, particularly through our membership of the European Union and the United Nations. Ireland is a strong contributor not just to decisions regarding the international humanitarian response to crises but also to efforts to prevent conflict and to resolve conflict.
Ireland has a deep partnership with the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, OCHA. OCHA coordinates and leads coherent and effective international responses to humanitarian crises.
Among other funds, OCHA manages the Central Emergency Response Fund, which responds to sudden onset disasters and to under-funded crises. Ireland is a strong supporter of both mechanisms and the current chair of the OCHA donor support group, which works with the Office the UN Humanitarian Coordinator. A key priority for Ireland as chair is to ensure that Ireland plays an effective international role on the protection of civilians and to uphold international humanitarian law. In international forums, Ireland consistently advocates for adherence to the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence, and called on all parties – for example, those engaged in the Syria conflict – to fulfill their responsibility to protect civilians and to allow the safe passage of humanitarian assistance.
Promoting international peace and security in regions of conflict is a core mission of the United Nations. By necessity, United Nations authorised interventions are required in the most sensitive war zones.
Ireland has a long tradition of contributing to UN and EU peace-support missions, including in some of the world’s most complex and intractable conflicts. Ireland has maintained a continuous presence in UN peace support operations since 1958, and has more than 570 personnel in United Nations mandated missions overseas. The Government is committed to participation in peace-keeping operations as a tangible contribution to the development of global peace and security. This commitment informs Ireland’s decision to seek election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the period 2021-22. If elected, membership of the Security Council would allow Ireland to play an important influencing role in the international response to the needs of the most vulnerable.
Overseas Development Aid
Ceisteanna (97)
Niall Collins
Ceist:97. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to develop a roadmap to reach the ODA to GNI 0.7% target; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48016/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In June 2018 the Taoiseach launched Global Ireland, a plan to double Ireland’s global impact by 2025. Among other things, the Government committed to publishing a White Paper on Ireland’s International Development Cooperation and to delivering 0.7% of GNI to Official Development Assistance by 2030.
The public consultation for the new White Paper on international development concluded last month. The intention is to finalise the White Paper before the end of the year.
The new policy will set the context for the Government to continue on its pathway to reaching the United Nations target of 0.7% GNI to ODA over the lifetime of the United Nations sustainable development goals, that is by 2030.
Sustained, managed increments will be required if this target is to be met. A first step was made in budget 2019, which saw the highest increase in the funding available to overseas development assistance in over a decade. Overall Irish ODA funding in 2019 is forecast to reach €816.9 million, an increase of €109.8 million on this year’s allocation. This allocation includes a €44.8 million increase in 2019 for Irish Aid, the international development programme managed by my Department.
Human Rights
Ceisteanna (98)
Maureen O'Sullivan
Ceist:98. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on attacks on Christians in India by extremists and the reports from organisations (details supplied) that the perpetrators are acting with impunity; and if this matter has been raised at EU level. [48083/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. I am aware of the Reports to which the Deputy refers. I very strongly condemn any violent attacks faced by the Christian community in India and all forms of persecution on the basis of religion or belief, irrespective of where it occurs, or who the victims are.
My Department has received a number of reports from NGOs and other organisations which set out the details of several violent incidents targeting Christian communities in India. A suitable opportunity to raise such concerns is in the context of the EU-India Human Rights Dialogue, in which the EU and India exchange views on a broad range of human rights concerns. A date for the next dialogue is currently being sought by the EU.
Freedom of religious expression is a cornerstone of any functioning democracy, and those rights must be guaranteed. Acts of violence and discrimination based on religion or belief, committed in the name of religion or national security, whether by individuals, by groups or by states, must be challenged.
The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Ireland’s foreign policy. Ireland works closely with human rights defenders to protect them and the work they do and to promote the value of civil society space.
Officials from my Department, including in the Embassy in New Delhi, will continue to monitor the human rights situation in India, in close cooperation with the EU.
Question No. 99 answered with Question No. 90.
Brexit Issues
Ceisteanna (100, 113)
Niamh Smyth
Ceist:100. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his Department has carried out an analysis by county of the potential impact of Brexit here, with particular reference to counties Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48121/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAindrias Moynihan
Ceist:113. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the efforts that have been made to minimise the impact of Brexit on County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48115/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100 and 113 together.
Any Brexit scenario will mean considerable change and impact for Ireland. We are taking forward extensive and detailed Brexit preparedness and contingency work across all Government Departments and Agencies. This planning, as appropriate, includes any specific responses necessary according to regional needs and at the county level, including those of Cavan, Monaghan, and Cork of which I am, of course, acutely aware.
As part of prudent preparation for Brexit, steps need to be taken at national level, at EU level and by business and citizens who will be affected.
The underlying strength and resilience of our economy is critical in ensuring that Ireland is in the best possible position to respond to the challenges that Brexit will bring and this has been a key factor in developing successive budgets including in Budget 2019.
The Government has already taken a number of key decisions on measures to be put in place for the necessary checks and controls for trade on an East-West basis. The recruitment of an additional 1,000 staff for customs and SPS controls, in addition to ICT and infrastructure measures at our ports and airports has been sanctioned and implementation is underway. Various contingency measures, such as the rapid redeployment of customs staff, are also under active consideration in a disorderly Brexit scenario.
Businesses and other affected sectors need to respond and prepare themselves and the Government is providing an array of support and information measures to assist them. Specific support measures and schemes are now in place for the business and agri-food sector. To better inform our businesses and citizens the Getting Ireland Brexit Ready public information campaign was launched in September. Very successful outreach events were held in October and more will follow this month.
Of particular relevance to citizens is the work on the Common Travel Area to ensure that the arrangements by which Irish and British citizens can live, work and access public services in each other’s countries will continue into the future in any Brexit scenario.
In a number of key areas the appropriate response and mitigation will be at the EU level and we are continuing to engage actively with the Commission on areas of priority for Ireland. The Commission has flagged the particular impact of Brexit on Ireland and Irish business in its contingency planning communication last week.
Ireland is also working closely with fellow member states to discuss areas of key concern, particularly facilitating the use of the UK as a landbridge post Brexit.
While we respect the decisions of the British people, we did not seek Brexit nor has it ever been our view that it is a positive step. We continue to engage in extensive contingency planning across Government, with a view to mitigating as far as possible the negative outcomes that will arise when the UK leaves the EU, particularly in a disorderly Brexit scenario.
Overseas Development Aid Expenditure
Ceisteanna (101)
Maureen O'Sullivan
Ceist:101. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way in which the additional €110 million in budget 2019 for overseas development aid will be spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48081/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
For 2019, the Government has allocated almost €817 million for Official Development Assistance (ODA). This level of allocation represents an increase of approximately €110 million – or 16% on the revised 2018 budget allocation. Of this, €544.9 million will be managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, whose Vote 27 – International Co-operation – is known publicly as Irish Aid. The allocation to Vote 27 has been increased by €44 million, or almost 9% on last year’s allocation.
Priorities will be determined in the detailed programme budget planning cycle for Irish Aid in 2019, a process that will be completed before the end of this year. The Government is committed to increased allocations to education, to humanitarian assistance and to peacebuilding. Tackling climate change is another policy priority area that will benefit from the extra budget resources in 2019.
A further estimated €272 million will be managed through other Government Departments and Ireland’s share of the EU Development Co-operation Budget. This represents an increase of €65 million on 2018. This so-called ‘other ODA’ includes Ireland’s share of the EU development cooperation budget, which has increased in 2019.
In addition, the Department of Finance will oversee increased contributions to International Financial Institutions as well as Ireland’s membership of the African Development Bank which will take place in 2019.
There are also increased allocations to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine who manage Ireland’s partnerships with the World Food Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organisation. Other programmes receiving increases are managed by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, and the Revenue Commissioners.
Human Rights
Ceisteanna (102)
Niall Collins
Ceist:102. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on recent comments by an organisation (details supplied) that the EU migration policy is trapping thousands of refugees in appalling conditions in Libya; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48014/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In June, the European Council reconfirmed that a precondition for a functioning EU policy on migration relies on a comprehensive approach to migration which combines effective controls of the EU's external borders, external action to strengthen co-operation with countries of transit and origin and dealing with the management of migrants within the European Union, where a balance of solidarity and responsibility is needed.
As part of this multi-faceted approach, the March European Council adopted the Malta Declaration which sets out the EU’s commitment to assist Libya. This broad-ranging commitment includes capacity building, training, and the provision of equipment and support for the Libyan national coast guard and other agencies. It also seeks to ensure that there are adequate reception capacities in Libya for migrants, through working with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Progress has been made in alleviating the plight of migrants in Libya but this must be built upon. Since 2014, the EU has mobilised €286 million on migration projects in Libya, €20 million as bilateral assistance and €266 million through the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa. Using the Trust Fund, the EU is working to provide multi-sectoral assistance and protection to migrants, refugees and host communities in different locations inside Libya, in particular inside detention centres, at disembarkation points and in urban settings. Assistance includes hygiene kits, basic non-food items and medical care. Funds are also being used to work towards the stabilisation of host communities, for example through socio-economic development at municipal level. Projects are being implemented by international partners on the ground, including the UNHCR and UNICEF, and by EU Member States. Ireland has pledged €15 million for the Fund, of which €12 million is unearmarked, and overall Ireland’s is the third highest per capita contribution by an EU Member State.
Support programmes have provided training to the Libyan authorities on international standards and human rights training. They have also focused on setting up mixed community development spaces and safe spaces as alternatives to detention centres. There has been progress in the efforts to support migrants stranded in Libya and wishing to return to their home countries. As an alternative to detention centres, the EU has also been supporting voluntary repatriation, voluntary return and the humanitarian return of migrants from Libya. So far in 2018, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has helped over 14,600 migrants to return voluntarily to their country of origin from Libya, with support from the EU.
While the EU has engaged substantially on this issue, further work remains to be done. I am deeply troubled by the persistent human rights abuse that have been perpetrated against migrants in Libyan detention centres, as reported by the UN Human Rights Office and others. I have raised these concerns at the Foreign Affairs Council and the Taoiseach has raised them at the European Council.
Ultimately, bringing real improvements to the lives of Libyans and migrants, and ensuring an end to human rights abuses, will require the restoration of political stability, and an end to lawlessness in Libya. This requires the formation of a fully functioning and unified government, and a return to order throughout the country. I call on all parties to cooperate fully with UN Special Representative Ghassan Salamé, whose efforts Ireland and the EU fully support.
I commend Italy’s efforts in hosting the conference on Libya in Palermo last week. I particularly welcome the conclusions announced following the conference, which call for a Libyan-led inclusive national conference to be held in early 2019, followed by an electoral process in spring. I call on all parties in Libya to uphold their commitments. An inclusive, Libyan-led reconciliation process is the only path to completing Libya’s transition, and bringing about a sovereign, democratic and stable country, that respects and protects the rights of all citizens, and all others in Libya.
Human Rights
Ceisteanna (103)
Seán Crowe
Ceist:103. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the fact that 425 social and community leaders have been murdered in Colombia since the signing of the peace agreement; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that these murders are targeted and pose a very real threat to the peace process; if has he raised these continued attacks on and assassinations of community and political activists in Colombia with his Colombian counterpart; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48134/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Firstly, I wish to extend my sincere sympathies and condolences to all of those affected by these acts of violence in Colombia. Such violence is entirely unacceptable, and I would once again call on the Government of Colombia to ensure that all such incidents are thoroughly investigated and their perpetrators brought to justice. I continue to be concerned about the attacks targeting social and community leaders in Colombia. The peace deal between the Colombian Government and FARC-EP group signed in November 2016 offered great hope that the 50 year cycle of armed conflict would be brought to an end. It is worth recalling that this conflict took the lives of at least 220,000 Colombians and displaced close to six million people.
The signing of this agreement was a historic moment but, as we know from our experience in Ireland, the signing of a peace agreement only marks the beginning of a process. We in Ireland understand the slow and painstaking work that goes into building trust between communities to enable reconciliation and to develop a culture of trust. We have had many dark moments and setbacks on our own road to peace.
My Department has an ongoing commitment to support peace and human rights in Colombia, including through the full implementation of the country’s peace accord. As well as exchanges with the Colombian authorities at Government level, officials at the Department and at the Embassy of Ireland in Mexico (which at present has responsibility for Colombia) engage regularly with the European Union Delegation and other embassies in Bogota, as well as with human rights defenders and civil society leaders active across the country.
My Department is also pleased to provide ongoing support to former Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Eamon Gilmore in his role as EU Special Envoy to the Colombian peace process. Appointed to this role by HRVP Federica Mogherini in November 2015, Eamon Gilmore has been working with both Colombian and EU stakeholders to support the peace process, especially in the implementation phase.
I firmly believe that Colombia’s peace accord provides the framework in which the endemic violence and impunity which has afflicted Colombian society for decades can successfully be addressed. Historic strides have been made to date in its implementation. However, it is important to recognise that there remain significant challenges to its implementation, including in the areas of de-mining, attention to victims, transitional justice, and rural development, some of which directly impacts on the situation of political and community activists.
The Department provides funding directly to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Colombia (OHCHR) to support its essential work to promote and protect human rights including in some of Colombia’s most isolated and challenging regions, as well as to the Inter American Commission on Human Rights, which provides protection measures to community leaders and activists operating in Colombia and elsewhere in Latin America.
With the opening of our new embassy in Bogota early next year, we will be in an even stronger position to monitor the progress of the peace process and to work alongside our EU partners and other organisations active on the ground. I can assure the Deputy of our continued commitment to assisting the Colombian Government in their goal of achieving a brighter, more peaceful and more prosperous future for all Colombians.