Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 May 2024
69. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will inform US President Biden that he condemns the force used by police against students in US universities protesting recently against US military support for Israel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20886/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraA number of countries globally are witnessing protests over the conflict in Gaza. Ireland is strongly committed to the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of expression and defending the rights of freedom of assembly and association.
The rights to assemble peacefully and associate freely are essential to ensuring the full enjoyment of civil and political rights, and the economic, social and cultural rights of all individuals. As well as constituting important human rights, these fundamental freedoms are an essential component of a healthy democracy.
There are of course examples where initial peaceful protests can evolve in a negative way and result in violence, intimidation and hate speech. In parallel to protecting fundamental freedoms, democratic societies must also guarantee peoples right to safety. This is a challenge that many democratic nations around the world are facing.
