Written Answers Nos. 129-153
129. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Taoiseach to report on the levels of exports to Israel in 2020, 2021, 2022; 2023 and to date in 2024 and if there has been any change in the level of agricultural exports since 7 October 2023. [16030/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe data requested by the Deputy is set out in the tables below.
Table A : Exports to Israel January 2020 to January 2024
|
Exports |
Jan-Dec 2020 |
Jan-Dec 2021 |
Jan-Dec 2022 |
Jan-Dec 2023 |
Jan 2024 |
|
Product Group |
Value (€000) |
Value (€000) |
Value (€000) |
Value (€000) |
Value (€000) |
|
Food and live animals |
17,159 |
27,239 |
23,995 |
31,937 |
5,198 |
|
Beverages and tobacco |
3,334 |
3,867 |
3,616 |
3,107 |
350 |
|
Crude materials, inedible, except fuels |
417 |
513 |
791 |
858 |
60 |
|
Mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials |
2,128 |
2,179 |
2,999 |
3,058 |
222 |
|
Animal and vegetable oils, fats and waxes |
1 |
7 |
20 |
18 |
0 |
|
Chemicals and related products |
229,764 |
222,166 |
261,068 |
264,660 |
31,245 |
|
Manufactured goods classified chiefly by material |
4,188 |
3,595 |
4,116 |
6,255 |
496 |
|
Machinery and transport equipment |
101,082 |
546,544 |
732,149 |
184,959 |
24,231 |
|
Miscellaneous manufactured articles |
27,865 |
15,133 |
19,980 |
25,550 |
1,948 |
|
Commodities and transactions not classified elsewhere |
135 |
229 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total |
386,075 |
821,472 |
1,048,736 |
520,401 |
63,750 |
As there is no single product group for Agricultural products, Table B below shows exports of Food and live animals which covers most of agricultural products. This data is from October 2023 up to January 2024 which is the latest date for which data is available. The data is preliminary and is subject to revision.
Table B : Exports to Israel October 2023 to January 2024.
|
Exports |
Oct 2023 |
Nov 2023 |
Dec 2023 |
Jan 2024 |
|
Product Group |
Value (€000) |
Value (€000) |
Value (€000) |
Value (€000) |
|
Food and live animals |
3,481 |
4,061 |
798 |
5,198 |
|
Beverages and tobacco |
472 |
378 |
207 |
350 |
|
Crude materials, inedible, except fuels |
35 |
17 |
32 |
60 |
|
Mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials |
242 |
75 |
254 |
222 |
|
Chemicals and related products |
21,343 |
24,615 |
10,684 |
31,245 |
|
Manufactured goods classified chiefly by material |
315 |
645 |
199 |
496 |
|
Machinery and transport equipment |
11,866 |
19,765 |
16,476 |
24,231 |
|
Miscellaneous manufactured articles |
1,990 |
2,381 |
2,987 |
1,948 |
|
Total |
39,744 |
51,936 |
31,637 |
63,750 |
130. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Taoiseach the distribution of retirees across the entire Irish workforce, by age of retirement; the difference of pattern among the self-employed and the rest; and their estimate of the number of persons at work aged 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, and 70 or over. [15927/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe exact information requested by the Deputy is not available.
The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is a household survey which provides quarterly statistics on employment and unemployment and is the official source of labour market estimates in the State. The classification of employment status in LFS results is determined according to ILO (International Labour Organisation) concepts and definitions.
The LFS does not record respondents’ age of retirement. However, the LFS does contain estimates of numbers of retired persons by age as well as population by age– see Table 1.
The LFS does not record the former employment status (self-employed or employee) of retired persons. However, Table 2 contains estimates for numbers of persons employed broken down by age group and employment status from Q1 2022 to Q4 2023.
Estimates for the numbers of persons in employment by ages 64 years + are available in Table 3.
Table 1 Number of retired persons (PES) and total population 55+, Q1 2022 - Q4 2023
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Reference period: Q1 Jan-Mar,Q2 Apr-Jun,Q3 Jul-Sep,Q4 Oct-Dec.
Estimates for number of persons, where there are less than 30 persons in a cell, are too small to be considered reliable. These estimates are presented with an asterisk (*) in the relevant tables. Where there are 30-49 persons in a cell, estimates are considered to have a wider margin of error and should be treated with caution. These cells are presented with parentheses []. In the case of rates, these limits apply to the denominator used in generating the rate. In the case of annual changes, both the current year and the preceding year are taken into account when deciding whether the estimate should be suppressed or flagged as having a wider margin of error.
Table 2: Persons in employment (ILO) by employment status and age group, Q1 2022 - Q4 2023
'000
|
2022 |
2023 |
||||||||
|
Q1 |
Q2 |
Q3 |
Q4 |
Q1 |
Q2 |
Q3 |
Q4 |
||
|
Self-employed with and without employees |
47.9 |
49.6 |
50.9 |
44.4 |
43.7 |
44.1 |
47.9 |
47.2 |
|
|
Age group 55-59 years |
Employee or assisting relative |
185.9 |
184.5 |
183.1 |
187.7 |
192.0 |
192.4 |
192.5 |
183.6 |
|
Self-employed with and without employees |
39.4 |
40.7 |
39.3 |
41.8 |
43.8 |
43.9 |
44.5 |
46.6 |
|
|
Age group 60-64 years |
Employee or assisting relative |
114.2 |
114.6 |
122.6 |
126.8 |
126.4 |
130.5 |
125.7 |
129.5 |
|
Self-employed with and without employees |
24.4 |
24.3 |
23.2 |
26.1 |
30.1 |
29.6 |
28.7 |
25.5 |
|
|
Age group 65-69 years |
Employee or assisting relative |
33.6 |
38.7 |
36.5 |
37.7 |
38.5 |
38.8 |
41.1 |
46.5 |
|
Self-employed with and without employees |
28.1 |
29.1 |
25.4 |
24.9 |
27.1 |
27.2 |
28.9 |
28.1 |
|
|
Age group 70+ years |
Employee or assisting relative |
16.9 |
16.3 |
16.6 |
14.6 |
14.3 |
15.3 |
17.8 |
17.6 |
Source: CSO Labour Force Survey
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Reference period: Q1 Jan-Mar,Q2 Apr-Jun,Q3 Jul-Sep,Q4 Oct-Dec.
Table 3: Persons in employment (ILO) 64-89 Q1 2022 - Q4 2023
|
- |
Q1 2022 |
Q2 2022 |
Q3 2022 |
Q4 2022 |
Q1 2023 |
Q2 2023 |
Q3 2023 |
|
Age 64 years |
24.3 |
23.1 |
22.7 |
24.9 |
27.2 |
26.2 |
27.8 |
|
Age 65 years |
15.9 |
16.7 |
16.5 |
18.6 |
21.3 |
20.3 |
20.0 |
|
Age 66 years |
13.0 |
15.4 |
15.5 |
13.9 |
13.9 |
15.1 |
16.7 |
|
Age 67 years |
12.4 |
11.3 |
9.5 |
12.7 |
13.0 |
13.3 |
15.0 |
|
Age 68 years |
9.8 |
12.0 |
9.4 |
9.9 |
12.3 |
11.1 |
8.2 |
|
Age 69 years |
7.0 |
7.6 |
8.8 |
8.7 |
8.1 |
8.6 |
10.0 |
|
Age 70+ years |
44.9 |
45.3 |
42.1 |
39.6 |
41.3 |
42.6 |
46.7 |
Source: CSO Labour Force Survey
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change
Reference period: Q1 Jan-Mar,Q2 Apr-Jun,Q3 Jul-Sep,Q4 Oct-Dec.
131. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline Ireland's representation and involvement in the 9th Our Ocean Conference 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16521/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland will be represented at the 9th Our Ocean Conference in Athens by our Ambassador to Greece along with the Maritime Affairs Attaché of Ireland's Permanent Representation to the European Union. Ireland commends Greece for hosting this important event and we share Greece’s view that environmental protection of the seas and oceans is a matter of global importance.
Ireland’s representatives will participate in the main conference as well as a number of important side events. These include "Our Deep Ocean: the growing momentum for a halt to deep-sea mining", which will involve speakers from Ireland and other countries that support a precautionary pause in deep-sea mining.
Our representatives will also participate in a European Commission-led Side Event “Concrete solutions for our greatest challenges: Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030” which will highlight challenges faced by marine and freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity.
Ireland will also participate at a high-level breakfast on “Reaching 30x30 ocean protection” which is co-hosted by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment and Ireland’s partner, Blue Action Fund. Blue Action Fund works with NGOs to establish or enhance over 350,000km of Marine Protected Areas, benefiting over 225,000 people in developing countries. It provides grants to selected conservation projects in Marine Protected Areas and their buffer zones, targeting the most sensitive coastal waters in Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific. Last month, Irish Aid provided €1.75 million to Blue Action Fund, the third payment a three-year €5million commitment of support.
132. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs what steps, if any, were taken to ensure that US Air Force C17 Globemaster aircraft number 08-8201 was not carrying weapons or munitions when it travelled through Shannon Airport on 10 April 2024, coming from Mac Dill US Air Force base in Tampa, Florida, and which then travelled on to Tel Aviv, Israel on 11 April 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16760/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the terms of the Air Navigation (Foreign Military Aircraft) Order, 1952, all foreign military aircraft wishing to overfly, or land in, the State require diplomatic clearance from the Minister for Foreign Affairs. Diplomatic clearance is subject to strict conditions, including that the aircraft is unarmed; that it carries no arms, ammunition or explosives; that it does not engage in intelligence gathering; and that the flight in question does not form part of a military exercise or operation.
This policy is well known and is fully understood by the United States and other international partners, and is conducted in compliance with Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality.
With respect to the aircraft in question, I am satisfied that the correct diplomatic clearance procedures for foreign military landings were followed in full.
As I have stated previously, no airport in Ireland, or Irish sovereign airspace, is being used to transport weapons to the conflict in the Middle East.
133. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in light of reports of extensive usage with flagrantly inadequate oversight of artificial intelligence systems by the Israeli Defence Forces, which has significantly contributed to the killing of in excess of 33,000 civilians, he will engage with international partners with a view to establishing a treaty prohibiting or regulating the use of artificial intelligence systems in warfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15971/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe legal position is clear – under international humanitarian law Israel must protect civilians in Gaza. Ireland has consistently emphasised the international humanitarian law obligations upon all actors to distinguish at all times between civilians and combatants, and to take all feasible precautions to protect civilians.
Ireland continues to engage in international initiatives regarding military uses of artificial intelligence. These include attendance at the Dutch hosted REAIM Summit in February 2023 - an initiative on Responsible Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain, and the inaugural plenary in March 2024 for the US-led Political Declaration on Responsible Military Use of AI and Autonomy, which we first endorsed in November 2023.
In these fora, Ireland highlights that international humanitarian law is paramount, and an autonomous approach to the application of force poses fundamental legal and ethical concerns. We believe that the unconstrained use of artificial intelligence and autonomy in a military context, and the consequent loss of human control over the use of force would create unacceptable risks to civilians.
134. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs what consideration his Department has given to opening a consulate in Costa Rica; what plans his Department has to expand its consular service in Central America; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16020/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince its launch in 2022, the Global Ireland Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean to 2025 has been delivering increased engagement with the countries of the region across all five of its key objectives, as well as an enhanced provision of consular assistance and services to Irish citizens present in the region.
Ireland's presence in, and relations with, the countries of the Central America region has been greatly enhanced through the establishment of an Office for Central America, which was opened in the Embassy of Ireland in Mexico City in 2022. This Office has already delivered a marked increase in political, economic, values-based and cultural engagement with Costa Rica, including as evidenced by the visit of Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD to Costa Rica for St. Patrick's Day this year.
Any decision on the opening of a new Irish diplomatic Mission is considered with reference to Ireland's national, political and economic priorities. Against these and other factors, the Government keeps the matter of further openings, including in the Latin America region, under active review.
My Department, working closely with relevant Government Departments and State Agencies, will continue to implement the commitments set out the Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean with a view to further boosting our bilateral relations and strengthening the provision of consular support across the region, including in the countries of Central America.
135. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of times Ireland has been fined by the EU for delays in implementing EU Directives and for breaches of EU legislation, respectively; the nature of each fine; and the total financial value of each for each of the past ten years, in tabular form. [16037/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince 2012, the European Court of Justice has found against Ireland in six infringement cases where financial penalties have been levied as follows -
|
Country |
Total |
|
AUSTRALIA |
512 |
|
AUSTRIA |
12 |
|
BELGIUM |
22 |
|
BELIZE |
1 |
|
BULGARIA |
7 |
|
CANADA |
270 |
|
CAYMAN ISLANDS |
1 |
|
CHANNEL ISLANDS |
7 |
|
CHINA |
1 |
|
CYPRUS |
9 |
|
CZECH REPUBLIC |
25 |
|
DENMARK |
18 |
|
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC |
1 |
|
ESTONIA |
9 |
|
FINLAND |
3 |
|
FRANCE |
115 |
|
GERMANY |
131 |
|
GREECE |
8 |
|
HONG KONG |
1 |
|
HUNGARY |
15 |
|
INDIA |
4 |
|
INDONESIA |
1 |
|
ISRAEL |
3 |
|
ITALY |
21 |
|
JAPAN |
1 |
|
JERSEY |
3 |
|
KENYA |
1 |
|
LATVIA |
30 |
|
LITHUANIA |
59 |
|
LUXEMBOURG |
5 |
|
MALAYSIA |
2 |
|
MALTA |
8 |
|
MEXICO |
2 |
|
MOROCCO |
1 |
|
NETHERLANDS |
45 |
|
NEW ZEALAND |
20 |
|
NORFOLK ISLAND |
1 |
|
NORWAY |
8 |
|
PHILIPPINES |
8 |
|
POLAND |
90 |
|
PORTUGAL |
38 |
|
ROMANIA |
5 |
|
SERBIA |
1 |
|
SLOVAKIA |
17 |
|
SOUTH AFRICA |
15 |
|
SPAIN |
241 |
|
SWEDEN |
9 |
|
SWITZERLAND |
16 |
|
THAILAND |
9 |
|
TUNISIA |
2 |
|
TURKEY |
3 |
|
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES |
1 |
|
UNITED KINGDOM (incl. Northern Ireland) |
3668 |
|
USA |
720 |
|
VIETNAM |
2 |
|
Total |
6228 |
Responsibility for these cases rests with the relevant Ministers and their Departments.
136. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the total investment the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund holds in companies which operate within illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, by portfolio and company, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16057/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra137. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied); if the passport will be expedited urgently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16135/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra141. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of passport applications (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16322/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 141 together.
With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputy has inquired, the Passport Service has issued passports to the applicants.
138. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the Spanish Prime Minister’s statement that Spain would recognise Palestinian statehood before the summer; and if Ireland will also recognise Palestinian statehood before the summer. [16163/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I stated in Dáil Éireann on 9 April, it is my intention to bring a formal proposal on recognition to Government following the completion of discussion with international partners. The Taoiseach and I are actively engaged in discussions with partners in the European Union and the region. On 10 April, I spoke with the Foreign Minister of Spain about our plans for recognition, and the Taoiseach held discussions with Prime Minister Sánchez in Dublin on 12 April.
Following the most recent European Council meeting in March, Ireland joined with Spain, Malta and Slovenia to release a joint statement that outlined our readiness to recognise Palestinian statehood when it can make a positive contribution and the circumstances are right. Discussions on this are ongoing with partners.
The Programme for Government states that the Government will “honour our commitment to recognise the State of Palestine as part of a lasting settlement of the conflict, or in advance of that, when we believe doing so will progress efforts to reach a two-State solution or protect the integrity of Palestinian territory”.
Recognition is a step Ireland can only take once, a step which should be carefully calibrated to best advance the peace process, a step to take when the timing is right.
We are clear that the only way to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region is through implementation of a two-state solution, with Israeli and Palestinian States living side-by-side, in peace and security.
139. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 10 of 28 February 2024, the annual costs to the State arising from Ireland’s ratification of the European Convention on Human Rights; the annual costs of our contributions towards the running costs of treaty bodies such as the European Court of Human Rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16206/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland was one of the original members of the Council of Europe and continues to be a very strong supporter of its mission promoting and protecting human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
Ireland signed the European Convention on Human Rights on 4 November 1950, and ratified the Convention on 25 February 1953. The Convention entered into force in Ireland on 3 September 1953. Article 50 of the Convention provides that the expenditure of the European Court of Human Rights will be borne by the Council of Europe.
The Council of Europe is financed through the obligatory and voluntary contributions of its member states, including Ireland. Such contributions are subject to variation annually.
An overview of the Council of Europe’s total expenditure for 2023, including towards the European Court of Human Rights, can be found on page 2 of the 2023 Adjusted Council of Europe Programme and Budget 2022-2025, which can be accessed at the following link:
rm.coe.int/CoERMPublicCommonSearchServices/DisplayDCTMContent?documentId=0900001680a9663f
A breakdown of Ireland’s 2023 contributions towards the Council of Europe are as follows:
Ireland’s Council of Europe Mandatory Contributions (2023):
|
|
2023 Amount (€) |
|
Ordinary Budget |
€ 4,419,764.76 |
|
Pension Reserve Fund |
€606,656.57 |
|
Extraordinary Budget |
€88,304.22 |
|
Pension Scheme Adjustment |
€19,116.00 |
|
Youth Foundation |
€60,513.75 |
Ireland’s Council of Europe Partial Agreements (2023):
|
Partial Agreements |
2023 Amount (€) |
|
Pharmacopeia/EDQM |
- €10,013.12* |
|
Development Bank/CEB |
€20,375.98 |
|
Pompidou Group |
€40,938.37 |
|
Eurimages |
€413,974.08 |
|
Venice Commission |
€69,650.74 |
|
Youth Card |
€5,422.35 |
|
Graz Centre |
€40,887.10 |
|
GRECO |
€21,088.49 |
* Participating Member States receive an annual credit for any profits generated under the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and Healthcare (EDQM). The allocation of this credit balance is at the discretion of the Department of Health.
Ireland’s Council of Europe ‘Other' Contributions (2023):
|
Project |
2023 Amount (€) |
|
Council of Europe (CoE) - Human Rights Trust Fund |
€100,000 |
|
CoE - Contact Group in Belarus |
€50,000 |
|
CoE - Cooperation activities in Kosovo |
€30,000 |
|
CoE - Istanbul Convention Programme |
€40,000 |
|
CoE - European SOGI Governmental Expert Network |
€15,000 |
|
European Court of Human Rights - Webcasting of Hearings |
€80,000 |
|
Ukraine Register of Damages |
€6520.46 |
|
European Court of Human Rights – reducing backlog of cases |
€100,000 |
140. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs If he plans to visit Turkey in 2024. [16279/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTürkiye is an important regional partner, and a candidate country for EU membership, with which Ireland continues to maintain a productive relationship across the full range of our shared priorities.
While I do not currently have any plans to visit to Türkiye during 2024, Ireland continues to engage both bilaterally and multilaterally with our Turkish counterparts, at all levels.
Most recently, I met with my Turkish counterpart Foreign Minister Fidan in the margins of the 8th Regional Forum of the Union for the Mediterranean in Barcelona, in November 2023, during which we discussed the situation in Gaza.
I also met with Foreign Minister Fidan in the margins of the UN General Assembly in New York in September 2023, where we discussed the close bilateral relations that our countries enjoy. I also recalled that Türkiye is an important partner for the EU, while further reiterating our wish to see progress on key fundamentals such as sanctions circumvention, and compliance with rulings of the European Court of Human Rights.
Ireland’s relationship with Türkiye is rich and multifaceted. Given the wider geopolitical context, and recent domestic developments, it is in the interests of Ireland, the EU and Türkiye that we have a positive and productive relationship, and that we continue to engage with one another in a spirit of cooperation and partnership.
142. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government will commit to contributing to the UN pooled fund that will support local and international organisations, such as an organisation (details supplied) that is working in Haiti. [16417/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am very concerned at the extreme levels of violence in Haiti and the lack of access for essential supplies of food and medicine.
Through the Irish Aid programme, Ireland provided €2.8 million to support humanitarian and development programmes in Haiti in 2023. Over €2 million of this was provided through Irish NGOs, Concern, GOAL and Plan International Ireland, with further funding provided to UNICEF for its Humanitarian Action for Children appeal.
In addition, Ireland contributes to pooled funds such as the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and the START Fund. CERF allocated over $US26 million to Haiti in 2023, and has allocated $US12 million this month. The START Fund allocated almost €750,000 to international NGOs in Haiti in 2023, and €350,000 so far in 2024. Ireland provided €14.5 million to CERF in 2023 and €1.4 million to the START Fund in 2023.
Ireland is a strong supporter of the UN country-based humanitarian funds globally and we have been following closely the recent establishment of a Haiti window under a new Regional Humanitarian Fund for Latin America and the Caribbean. We will continue to engage with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on this new fund and are reviewing the possibility of entering a partnership with the fund.
We, and our EU partners, recognise that a Haitian-led political solution is essential if the ongoing crisis in Haiti is to be comprehensively addressed. We are strong supporters of the efforts to install a transitional government in Haiti, and welcome recent progress in this regard. We also view as essential the swift deployment of a multinational security support mission to the country, as requested by Haiti.
143. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to the recent violations of the inviolability of diplomatic missions in breach of the Vienna Convention by the government of Ecuador; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16550/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing the incident at the Embassy of Mexico in Quito on 5 April, my Department expressed solidarity with Mexico and called on all countries to respect the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961, in particular the obligation on host countries to respect the inviolability of diplomatic Missions.
The safety and security of diplomatic premises and staff is a fundamental principle underpinning diplomatic relations.
Ireland takes any violation of the Vienna Convention very seriously and condemns the actions taken by the Ecuadorian authorities.
I fully support the EU statement, issued by the offices of High Representative Josep Borrell, which condemned the incident and called for international diplomatic law to be respected.
Ireland enjoys strong bilateral relations with both Mexico and Ecuador, and under the Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean to 2025 we are delivering a significant enhancement of relations with both countries across the political, economic, cultural and values-based spheres. We look forward to the resolution of any differences between these two countries in line with international law.
144. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to the recent violations of the inviolability of diplomatic missions in breach of the Vienna Convention by the government of Israel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16551/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe attack on the Iranian consular mission in Damascus and Iran's subsequent attack on Israel underlines the need for a significant and immediate de-escalation of the conflict.
The safety and security of diplomatic and consular premises and staff is a fundamental principle underpinning international relations. Attacks on diplomatic and consular premises violate international law, even in times of war and we call on all countries to respect the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic and Consular Relations.
I strongly condemn Iran’s attack on Israel. The scale and intensity of the attack represents a flagrant threat to international peace and security and is utterly unacceptable.
Ireland, along with our EU partners, calls on all parties to the conflict to show maximum restraint in the interests of peace. The entire region is in a very dangerous position now, and any further escalation will have catastrophic consequences for all of its people.
145. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when a decision will be made in relation to a passport application (details supplied); the reason for the delay in the issuing of said passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16714/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraWith regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, further supporting documents for this application were received on 5th April 2024. Turnaround time from the receipt of further supporting documents is 15 working days. The Passport service has reviewed the application, is taking action as appropriate and will contact the applicant directly in relation to the application as necessary.
146. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on Ireland’s contribution to the EU Mission in Armenia; if, given the announced expansion of the observer mission, he will commit to seeking a greater role; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16735/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is an active and committed supporter of EU civilian crisis management, and we welcomed the establishment of an EU civilian CSDP mission in Armenia in January 2023. This commitment by the EU sends an important signal of support for the stability and security of the South Caucasus region.
The Mission's mandate, or purpose, is to assess the impact of the conflict on populations in areas affected by conflict, to report on the security situation, and, through these actions, to build confidence among the population and authorities of both Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Since October 2023, Ireland has deployed two civilian experts as monitors to the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA). These experts are two of twenty four Irish civilian experts who provide essential expertise to eight of the EU's civilian CSDP missions in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
These deployments are kept under review in line with the needs of the missions themselves, Ireland's own CFSP priorities, budget, and the availability of qualified personnel.
147. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his Department’s strategy for the Caucasus region; the permanent missions through which Ireland engages with the region; his recent diplomatic engagements regarding the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16736/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has diplomatic relations with Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, and continues to engage with the region guided by the Department of Foreign Affairs Statement of Strategy 2023 - 2025.
Ireland and Armenia have had diplomatic relations since 1996, and Ireland is accredited to Armenia on a non-resident basis through the Embassy of Ireland in Sofia, Bulgaria. Armenia is accredited to Ireland on a non-resident basis through the Embassy of Armenia to the UK and Ireland in London. Varuzhan Nersesyan was appointed Ambassador to the UK and Ireland in July 2021.
My European colleagues and I had an informal exchange with the Armenian Foreign Minister, Ararat Mirzoyan at the Foreign Affairs Council on 11 December. This was a timely opportunity to receive an update on the prospects for an overarching peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, on EU-Armenia relations, and on the situation of the over 100,000 Karabakh Armenians now residing in Armenia.
In terms of bilateral contacts, I discussed the situation in the region and the welfare of civilians in my call with Foreign Minister Mirzoyan on 11 August 2023. The Taoiseach subsequently met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in October in the margins of the European Political Community Summit in Granada and emphasised Ireland’s concern for the welfare of those displaced by the conflict, and our support for a lasting peace in the region.
Ireland continues to work with Armenia to deepen our bilateral relationship. Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs met with the Armenian Ambassador to the UK and Ireland, His Excellency Varuzhan Nerseyan, during his visit to Dublin on 10 April. They discussed the situation in the South Caucasus region, and how to strengthen both EU – Armenia and bilateral ties between our two countries. My officials continue to engage with Armenia on these issues.
Ireland and Azerbaijan have had diplomatic relations since 1996. The Irish Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye, is accredited to Azerbaijan on a non-resident basis. The Embassy of Azerbaijan in London is accredited to Ireland and Ambassador H.E. Mr Elin Suleymano presented credentials in late 2022.
My officials in Dublin continue to engage with their Azerbaijani counterparts on the situation in the region, and on issues of bilateral importance. Officials met with a representative from the Embassy of Azerbaijan to the UK and Ireland during his visit to Dublin on 20 March, and discussed the prospects for peace in the region, and issues of bilateral importance including Azerbaijan’s priorities for the upcoming COP29 climate change conference, which will be held in Baku. Ireland will continue to engage with Azerbaijan in the run up to this important conference.
The Embassy of Ireland in Ankara also holds regular meetings with their counterparts in Baku, and Azerbaijani diplomats in Ankara.
Diplomatic relations with Georgia were established on 12 September 1996. The Irish Embassy to Bulgaria in Sofia is accredited to Georgia on a non-resident basis. Georgia is represented in Ireland through their resident Embassy in Dublin since 2011.
I have regularly engaged with the Georgian Government, including during the visit of Georgian Foreign Minister, H.E. Ilia Darchiashvili on 13-15 September 2023. During his visit, we signed a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding to enhance bilateral cooperation and hold regular political consultations between our two countries. Foreign Minister Darchiashvili also had meetings with the Minister of State for European Affairs, Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora, as well as with parliamentarians. The focus of the visit was on Georgia’s EU membership aspirations and opportunities to further develop bilateral relations.
On 7 March 2024, the Department of Justice announced a waiver of visa requirements for holders of Georgian diplomatic passports and for holders of service passports who are accompanying a Minister on an official visit. We hope that this move will help to facilitate more regular bilateral contacts.
Ireland’s Embassy in Sofia also plays a key role in Ireland’s engagement with Georgia and the Ambassador regularly meets with her counterparts.
Ireland also continues to engage on the region through European Union mechanisms, including the Eastern Partnership framework, which brings together the EU and its Member States, and the Governments of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Ukraine, and Moldova. The most recent Ministerial meeting of the Eastern Partnership took place in December 2023 and was a fruitful discussion. Ireland also engages through the European Union’s Working Groups, and Ireland’s Ambassador to the European Union’s Political and Security Committee participated in a joint visit to Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia on 9 – 12 April 2024 together with her EU counterparts.
148. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has considered opening an Irish embassy in Armenia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16737/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland and Armenia have enjoyed positive diplomatic relations since 28 June 1996. The Embassy of Ireland in Bulgaria is accredited to Armenia on a non-resident basis. The Embassy of Armenia to the UK and Ireland is accredited to Ireland on a non-resident basis, and Ambassador Varuzhan Nersesyan presented his credentials to President Michael D. Higgins in July 2022. Ambassador Nersesyan most recently visited Dublin on 10 April when he met with officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs in addition to meeting with parliamentary members.
On 5 March, the Government announced five new overseas missions would be opened under the Global Ireland programme, further strengthening Ireland’s global presence and influence. The new Embassies will be located in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Moldova, and the new Consulates General will be opened in Málaga and Melbourne. To date, under the Global Ireland Strategy, 19 new Missions have opened, while additional Missions in Islamabad, Milan and Munich are scheduled to open this year.
While noting increasing bilateral ties between Armenia and the EU, there are no current plans to open a resident Embassy of Ireland in Yerevan. Any decision on the opening of a new embassy is considered with reference to Ireland’s national, political and economic priorities. Against these and other factors, the Government keeps the matter of opening further cases under active review.
149. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his engagements with regard to Armenia potentially seeking candidate status for EU membership; Ireland’s position in relation to such; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16738/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland and the European Union are committed to growing our relations with Armenia in all dimensions. The EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has been in force since 1 March 2021 and aims to strengthen EU-Armenia co-operation in a number of sectors including the economy, business and trade, and education. With the support of the EU, Armenia has agreed to undertake reforms in areas such as rule of law, democracy, good governance, judicial independence, anti-corruption, human rights, and the economy. EU-Armenian relations have deepened significantly as a result of the CEPA. High Representative Josep Borrell announced at the most recent meeting of the EU-Armenia Partnership Council on 13 February 2024 that the EU would be launching an ambitious, new “EU-Armenia Partnership Agenda”.
The trilateral meeting on 5 April in Brussels between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan was a demonstration of our growing ties and a show of support from democratic countries for Armenia as a resilient democracy. At the meeting, further details of the new “EU-Armenia Partnership Agenda” were revealed by President von der Leyen, who announced €270 million in investments for Armenia over the next four years. This commitment underlines the EU’s support for Armenia in light of current challenges, and as a key partner of the European Union. I am confident that EU-Armenian relations will continue to strengthen in the years ahead.
We also welcome Armenia’s increasing European orientation. The enlargement of the EU has contributed significantly to the spread of stability, peace and prosperity across the continent. The process to join the European Union is merit-based, and clearly set out in the Copenhagen criteria. Any European country that meets the criteria and demonstrates a genuine commitment to European values should have an opportunity to join.
150. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government intends to recognise the massacre of one-and-a-half million Armenians as an act of genocide perpetrated by the Turkish government; if discussions have taken place within his Department or at a Government level as to developing a stance on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16739/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Irish Government views the terrible events which saw the deaths of a large number of the Armenian population in the Ottoman Empire as a tragedy, and has expressed deepest sympathy for the enormous suffering of the Armenian people during this period.
The term ‘genocide’ has a particular meaning under international law. The Government has not taken a stance on whether those terrible events should be described as a genocide. To reach a conclusion that any event amounts to genocide involves the consideration and determination of a number of complex factual and legal issues, including an assessment of the actions and intentions of many parties.
Currently, there is no international consensus on whether these events amount to genocide. No Irish or international court has issued a final judgment recognising these terrible events as an act of genocide.
Ireland’s position on the description of these events does not diminish in any way our recognition of the terrible and shocking nature of what occurred to the Armenian people between 1915 and 1917.
151. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his engagements with the government of Armenia; his efforts to develop and deepen bilateral, economic and cultural relations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16740/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra152. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his engagements with the government of Azerbaijan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16741/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra153. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his engagements with international partners regarding Armenia and Azerbaijan, with a view to contributing to conflict resolution and bringing about a lasting peace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16742/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 151 to 153, inclusive, together.
Tensions in the South Caucasus between Armenia and Azerbaijan remain an issue of concern for Ireland and the European Union, including following Azerbaijan’s military escalation in September 2023, and subsequent exodus of over 100,000 Karabakh Armenians to Armenia.
Ireland fully supports efforts to ensure a lasting, sustainable and comprehensive peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, based on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of borders. Ireland continues to engage bilaterally with Armenia and Azerbaijan regarding the situation in the region, and on issues of bilateral importance, including at recent meetings.
The European Union regularly discusses the situation in the region, and how the EU can play a role in facilitating peace, most recently during the Foreign Affairs Council meetings in January and March 2024. The European Union continues to work closely with both sides in support of a sustainable peace.
From 27- 29th November 2023, the European Commission and European External Action Service (EEAS) undertook a joint fact-finding mission to Armenia to identify areas for deepening EU-Armenia co-operation. The EU representatives met with senior interlocutors from the Armenian Government, and I welcome the subsequent announcement by the European Union that it will negotiate an ambitious new partnership agenda with Armenia in this context.
I welcome the meeting on 5 April between President of the European Commission von der Leyen, EU High Representative Borrell, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, USAID Administrator Samantha Power, and Prime Minister of Armenia Pashinyan, which reaffirmed the EU’s support for Armenia's sovereignty, democracy, territorial integrity, and socio-economic resilience.
I also welcome the meeting of Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Aliyev during the Munich Security Conference in February, and the subsequent meeting of Foreign Ministers in Berlin. We encourage all efforts that bring the sides together for dialogue.
My European colleagues and I had an informal exchange with the Armenian Foreign Minister, Ararat Mirzoyan at the Foreign Affairs Council on 11 December. This was a timely opportunity to receive an update on the prospects for an overarching peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and on EU-Armenia relations, as well as the situation of the over 100,000 Karabakh Armenians currently in Armenia.
In October 2023 the European Union agreed Council Conclusions which underline the EU’s continued support for advancing a sustainable and lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, based on the principles of recognition of sovereignty, the inviolability of borders and territorial integrity. Ireland also continues to engage on this issue at the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and the OSCE.
In terms of bilateral contacts, I discussed the situation in the region and the welfare of civilians in my call with Foreign Minister Mirzoyan on 11 August last year. The Taoiseach subsequently met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in October in the margins of the European Political Community Summit in Granada and emphasised Ireland’s concern for the welfare of those displaced by the conflict, and our support for a lasting peace in the region.
Ireland continues to work with Armenia to deepen our bilateral relationship. Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs met with the Armenian Ambassador to the UK and Ireland, His Excellency Varuzhan Nerseyan, during his visit to Dublin on 10 April. They discussed the situation in the South Caucasus region, and how to strengthen both EU – Armenian and bilateral ties between our two countries. My officials will continue to engage with Armenia on these issues.
Similarly, my officials continue to engage with their Azerbaijani counterparts on the situation in the region, and on issues of bilateral importance. Officials met with a representative from the Embassy of Azerbaijan to the UK and Ireland during his visit to Dublin on 20 March, and discussed the prospects for peace in the region, and issues of bilateral importance including Azerbaijan’s priorities for the upcoming COP9 climate change conference, which will be held in Baku. Ireland will continue to engage with Azerbaijan in the run up to this important conference.
Ireland will continue to support efforts to arrive at a negotiated, comprehensive and sustainable settlement of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan to the benefit of all people of the region.
