Foreign Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 February 2021

Wednesday, 10 February 2021

Ceisteanna (368, 369, 380)

Holly Cairns

Ceist:

368. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he is taking in relation to the recent military coup in Myanmar; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6884/21]

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

369. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent military coup in Myanmar; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6986/21]

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

380. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps taken in response to the military coup in Myanmar on 1 February 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7354/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 368, 369 and 380 together.

In response to events in Myanmar, I issued a statement, condemning the coup in the strongest possible terms. In the statement, I further condemned the detention of political figures and have called for their immediate release.

The coup is a reversal of progress made towards democracy and rule of law in Myanmar that have taken years to establish, and does nothing to tackle the public health, security or economic issues faced by the people of Myanmar.

The actions taken by the military leadership increase dangers for vulnerable populations facing pre-existing challenges, including internal conflicts, protecting human rights, meeting humanitarian needs and responding to the Rohingya refugee crisis.

Ireland set out its concerns in a discussion at the UN Security Council on the situation in Myanmar. It is welcome that the Council was able to adopt a common position after this meeting. Ireland is also party to a strong statement issued by the EU.

Ireland, the EU and other partners will work together to develop an appropriate response to this crisis. We are committed to ensuring that any course of action is appropriate, works to restore the democratic path in Myanmar and does not negatively impact developmental gains or exacerbate the humanitarian situation in Myanmar.

In recent days, there have been a number of demonstrations throughout Myanmar protesting last week's coup. It is important that the authorities respond appropriately to these events and that people in Myanmar are free to peacefully and safely express their views.

Our Embassy in Bangkok has also reached out to Irish citizens in Myanmar, offering support where needed and advising them on appropriate safety precautions.