Micheál Martin
Ceist:108. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has spoken with his Spanish counterpart recently. [42932/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 22 October 2019
Ceisteanna (108, 109, 122)
Micheál Martin
Ceist:109. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Catalonia was discussed at the most recent EU meetings. [42933/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Seán Crowe
Ceist:122. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the imprisonment of nine Catalan political and civil society leaders for between 9 and 13 years by the Spanish Supreme Court in Madrid; if he has raised the case with his Spanish counterpart; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42985/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 108, 109 and 122 together.
I am aware of the verdict of the Spanish Supreme Court to which the question refers and the reaction to the decision in Catalonia and the rest of Spain.
The question of Catalan independence remains a deeply divisive and contentious issue in Spain.
Given the importance we attach to respect for the separation of powers, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on a case ruled upon by the Spanish courts.
The constitutional and political arrangements in Spain are matters to be determined by its own citizens, through its democratic processes and institutions, in full respect of the rule of law. I want to reiterate Ireland's respect for the constitutional and territorial integrity of Spain.
The freedom to express contesting views is essential in any democracy, but differences of opinion must be contested with full respect for the law and the rights of all citizens. This is the foundation that underpins and protects modern democratic societies.
I maintain regular contact with my Spanish counterpart on a range of issues, including the situation in Catalonia.
Our Ambassador in Spain and officials at the Embassy also continue to monitor the situation closely, including in the context of travel advice provided to Irish citizens.