Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The free trade agreement between the European Union and its member states on the one part and the Republic of Colombia and the Republic of Peru on the other is an agreement within the meaning of Article 29.5.2° of the Constitution. Ratification by Ireland is therefore subject to prior approval of the Dáil. It is my intention to seek the necessary approval of Dáil Éireann during the course of this year.

While I am aware of the potential economic benefits of this agreement for Colombia and Peru, I am also aware there is a debate as to the value of these agreements to support and enhance human rights, labour rights, environmental protection and more broadly the sustainable development of these countries. I want to mention a few important points, especially in the context of Colombia.

Sustainable development and concerns for social and human rights are at the heart of the sustainability chapter of the agreement with Colombia. This is emphasised by the fact that, from the outset, article 1 of the agreement has stipulated that respect for democratic principles, fundamental human rights and the rule of law is an essential element of the agreement. During its negotiation, Ireland, including officials from the Department, strongly promoted the inclusion of provisions to reflect this essential element. The inclusion of a sustainable development chapter provides the EU with an important means to contribute to supporting positive social reforms and to the greater protection of human rights in Colombia. Furthermore, the establishment of a special committee, with representatives from Colombian civil society, to monitor implementation of the sustainability provisions demonstrates how the EU can develop real leverage for promoting its values and expectations through this agreement.

The elaboration by Colombia and Peru in October 2012 of roadmaps on human rights, labour rights and environmental protection clearly demonstrates how the agreement can incentivise an agenda for change. Against this background, I believe the agreement with Colombia will be instrumental in encouraging economic and social progress reinforced by arrangements that strengthen the voice and role of civil society in favour of the progressive development of human and labour rights. This is also recognised by the European Parliament, which last year voted to approve the agreement.

See this speech in context