Foreign Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 February 2024

Wednesday, 21 February 2024

Ceisteanna (29, 30)

Catherine Connolly

Ceist:

29. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 350 of 25 October 2022, for an update on the engagement he has had with his Algerian, European and UN counterparts in relation to the kidnapping on 6 January 2009 in Algiers of the sibling of an Irish citizen (details supplied) for which the UNHCR established Algeria’s responsibility; the circumstances of their abduction; the reason for their detention without trial; the steps that he has taken to secure their safe return; the engagement he has had with their family in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8160/24]

Paul Murphy

Ceist:

30. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 449 of 8 November 2022, if he will follow up with the UN Human Rights Committee, requesting any updates in relation to this case, including any actions taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8193/24]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 30 together.

In the past, I have received correspondence related to this case, as have officials in my Department. I understand that members of the Oireachtas have also received details of this case.

The protection and promotion of human rights is a core pillar of Ireland's foreign policy. In particular, the protection of human rights defenders is a key foreign policy priority for Ireland in our bilateral, EU, and UN multilateral engagement, including at the United Nations Security Council.

I have noted previously the views adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Committee in communication No. 2924/2016 which established Algeria’s responsibility in the alleged kidnapping of Mr Ahmed Braih.

On 14 February, officials from my Department met with representatives from Polisario Front and raised this case. Officials from my Department have also raised this case with the Algerian Embassy in Dublin. My Department will continue to raise this issue, including when appropriate with the Algerian authorities.

Question No. 30 answered with Question No. 29.