Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 September 2022
295. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the detention of a person (details supplied); if his Department has taken any steps to intervene in the situation; if he will condemn persecution of Christians; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45410/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department raised the issue with Lebanese officials shortly after Archbishop El Hage was detained and has continued to monitor developments. Religious leaders can play an important role in promoting tolerance, inclusivity and religious freedom, including in Lebanon.
The general situation in Lebanon is of great concern. The devastating explosions in Beirut on 4 August 2020, the pandemic, and grain shortages following on from the invasion of Ukraine have exacerbated a severe economic crisis. I have visited Lebanon on several occasions as Minister, most recently in May, and have witnessed first-hand the scale of the challenges facing the country. We have consistently called on the political leadership in Lebanon to urgently implement necessary reforms to address these challenges.
