Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The appalling attack on the peace rally in Ankara on 10 October, in which 102 people lost their lives and many more suffered serious injuries, was shocking to us all. I wish to reiterate my condemnation of this attack, which the Turkish authorities believe was carried out by individuals linked to Islamic State. In a statement, I expressed my condolences to the families of the deceased, to those who were injured, and to the people of Turkey. I personally visited the Turkish Embassy and signed the book of condolences. I offer my condolences once more today in the House. The ambassador of Ireland in Ankara was among a group of EU ambassadors who visited the site of the attack on 12 October and laid flowers in tribute to the victims.

I also condemn the earlier terrorist attacks, including on a People’s Democratic Party, HDP, rally in south-eastern Turkey on 5 June and a Kurdish youth centre in southern Turkey on 20 July. It is worrying that the terrorist attacks have largely focused on HDP-related events. I regret the resurgence of violence in Turkey. The integrity of the democratic process must be respected at all times. There is no place for violence in this process.

The Turkish authorities have strongly committed to doing everything in their power to ensure the safety of all Turkish citizens, including by increased security measures. In this context, it is welcome that the elections which took place on Sunday, 1 November, were held in a largely peaceful manner. The breakdown of the PKK ceasefire is regrettable. I reiterate my call that all sides exercise the utmost restraint. Ireland is very supportive of the peace process between the Turkish authorities and the Kurds. Through the work of the conflict resolution unit of my Department, financial assistance is provided for an international NGO which has facilitated study visits to Ireland by Turkish and Kurdish MPs, journalists and advisers working for peace.

Officials in my Department and at our embassy in Ankara will continue to monitor developments in Turkey closely.

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