Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy once again for his contribution. I have no difficulty with either myself or the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade calling in the ambassador. I will discuss the matter with the Tánaiste. As the Deputy correctly states, it is of such grave concern that it behoves the Government to take strong and decisive action. There is no doubt the case has resulted in widespread concern across the international community. In many ways, the case of Amina Filali can be compared with those of Mohamed Bouazizi in Tunisia and Wael Ghonim in Egypt which have helped to highlight the urgent need for reform and the greater promotion and defence of human rights in countries which are undergoing significant transformation as a result of what has come to be known as the Arab Spring. The important leadership role played by women in advocating for democratic reform and greater human rights has been much commented upon. The Tánaiste referred to the "striking and inspirational" leadership role played by women in the Arab Spring when he addressed the UN General Assembly last September. Ireland has been active in arguing at both EU and UN level that particular attention needs to be paid to promoting and safeguarding women's rights and the position of women within these societies in measuring the changes taking place in those countries in transition. Strong encouragement needs to be provided by the European Union and other international actors to ensure real benefits flow from the Arab Spring for women and their overall position is enhanced.

In the case of Morocco, it is important to note that a process of change has commenced in the wake of the Arab Spring and in response to popular protests which, thankfully, have been peaceful overall. A new government headed by the moderate Islamist Party for Justice and Development, PJD, has taken office following last November's parliamentary elections. A new constitution came into operation last July and King Mohammed VI who continues to exercise much influence in the country has identified judicial reform as one of his priorities, which is to be welcomed.

Ireland, with its EU partners, will continue to strongly encourage Morocco along the path of reform and democratic change. The European Union is engaged in an active human rights dialogue with Morocco as part of the EU-Morocco association agreement. Ireland will seek to ensure these structures are fully utilised in pressing Morocco to do more to improve its overall human rights record and introduce the fundamental reforms needed to prevent human tragedies such as that involving Amina Filali from occurring.

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