Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2020
342. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the discussion he has had with his European counterparts regarding reports of evictions and demolition of more than 900 shacks in the municipality of eThekwini, Durban during the Covid-19 emergency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14280/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe increasing spread and impact of COVID-19 in South Africa is of serious concern. The Government of South Africa adopted early and extraordinary measures in response to the pandemic and Ireland has been closely monitoring the situation, including the human rights implications of COVID-19, through our Embassy in Pretoria.
I am aware that the Government of South Africa introduced a moratorium on evictions for the duration of its national lockdown in recognition of the heightened risks of homelessness and rough sleeping during the pandemic. I am also aware of reports of evictions from informal settlements during this time, including in eThekwini, and more recently in Cape Town. Reports of the use of violence and excessive force during these evictions are of concern. South Africa has a robust civil society and strong legal system, and I understand that civil society-led actions challenging the legality of the evictions are underway. We will continue to monitor the situation, and the wider impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the response in South Africa, over the coming period.
Ireland has pledged €400,000 to support the United Nations’ Flash Appeal for COVID-19 response in South Africa. Ireland’s Embassy in Pretoria also works on an ongoing basis with civil society partners, supporting their efforts to promote human rights and good governance priorities, including access to justice. In 2020, this includes support for a range of COVID-response activities, such as the deployment of community human rights monitors.
The Governments of Ireland and South Africa share a commitment to democracy, human rights, good governance, tolerance and respect for the rule of law and we engage regularly with the Government of South Africa on these issues. The European Union and its Member States cooperate on a joint Human Rights Strategy in South Africa, which entails regular engagement with the Government of South Africa, including regular Human Rights Dialogues. Human rights issues will be raised on the agenda of a forthcoming EU-South Africa Ministerial Political Dialogue, as well as the EU-South Africa Summit, scheduled to take place later this year.
