Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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We all would agree that the opening of an embassy brings benefits, not only in goodwill but in trade and ever other way. The concern relates to some agreements, not necessarily the ones here before us today but some that have been made in the past, such as free-trade agreements with countries with whose human rights record one would have difficulties, and a number of them jump to mind straightaway in that regard. The Minister wished to assure the committee that human rights concerns are fully integrated in the EU's approach to external relations, but there are those who would argue, for example, in the free-trade agreements with Israel and Colombia where there are difficulties still on-going, which comes first given that human rights is linked-in with this. Once it is agreed, is it signed up for good or does it include a clause by which the Minister can step back from it in 12 months stating we are not happy with the progress on human rights and fundamental freedoms? Is there such a process?

The Minister spoke of the agreement allowing us to engage in a number of areas. He spoke of South Korea and stated it allows us to engage in non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, etc. Are we encouraging agreements in that regard? There would be nothing stopping the EU or any other organisation conducting discussions on those issues without an agreement in place. Maybe I am reading it wrongly; it is the first time I have seen it.

There are some other areas of concern. Deputy Mitchell stated she would kick me under the table if I asked any more, but I am concerned about the linkage with trade. There is a responsibility with trade relating to the opening up. It is seen as giving the imprimatur to many of these regimes and I presume there is concern among many about countries with whom we trade and with whom we open relations.