Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have not visited Colombia, but I have read about the sad events there. The conflict in Colombia has been ongoing for 60 years and the country is highly militarised and unstable and guerrilla groups continue to operate. One of our guests indicated that it was one of the most dangerous places in which to be a trade unionist. With the possible exception of Congo, it is definitely the most dangerous place in which to be a woman. The number of rapes carried out with absolute impunity and the level of abuse of women are unbelievable. Colombia also has the highest number of displaced persons in the world, with some 6 million out of their homes or off their land.

Where does one start when dealing with a country such as Colombia? There is a peace process of sorts, while lip service is being paid to human rights and so on. It is clear that everyone in Colombia was suddenly going to espouse democracy overnight. On the one hand, one can accept the argument to the effect that a free trade agreement would lead to economic and social development and facilitate the growth of democracy. One the other, however, such agreements lead to land and resources increasing in value and, as a result, they become all the more vulnerable to being seized by those who have from those who do not. What does one do in such a situation? The EU authorities are hell bent on proceeding with the agreement, but is there not a level of awareness among them of what is happening in Colombia. It is difficult to believe there is such a level of awareness at government level in all EU member states.

Our guests are probably aware that the Colombian ambassador came before us last week. There is a charm offensive taking place. Like Deputy Eric Byrne, I am concerned that once the agreement is ratified, the issue of human rights may fall of the agenda altogether. The Colombian authorities have made commitments to restore people's land, but these are not being honoured by a long shot. Therefore, we should proceed slowly on this agreement and sup with a long spoon.