Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2021
357. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the current political situation in Myanmar and in particular the jailing of a person (details supplied) for incitement and breaching Covid-19 rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61745/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraPresident Win Myint, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and Mayor Myo Aung received sentences in a military court in Myanmar on 6 December. Ireland condemns the politically motivated verdicts and believe they represent another step towards the dismantling of the rule of law and a further violation of human rights in Myanmar.
The proceedings appear to be an attempt to exclude democratically elected leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi, from future political engagement and the inclusive dialogue process called for by ASEAN’s Five Point Consensus. The military’s actions show contempt for the will of the people, expressed clearly in the November 2020 elections. Ireland joined statements issued by both the European Union and United Nations Security Council expressing concern at the sentencing and reiterating their calls for the release of those who have been arbitrarily detained since 1 February 2021.
The coup in Myanmar is a reversal of the progress made towards democracy and rule of law in Myanmar that has taken years to establish. I am gravely concerned by the escalation in violence and displacement in the country and the humanitarian and human rights situation.
Ireland is actively engaging at the European Union and United Nations to call on all sides to refrain from violence, and to fully respect human rights and comply with international law including international humanitarian and human rights law.
Ireland, along with our European Union colleagues, has been a steadfast supporter of Myanmar’s civilian and democratic transition, its peace process and national reconciliation, and its inclusive socio-economic development. We are currently working with the European Union to consider further actions to restore the democratic path in Myanmar. Through the UN and our Embassy network, we are encouraging those who have influence on the military leadership, including ASEAN and countries within the region, to use it to find a political resolution to this crisis and protect the human rights of the Myanmar people.
The situation remains on the agenda of the United Nations Security Council and we will continue to work with partners in search of a resolution to the deepening crisis.
