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

I assure the Deputy that Ireland is not silent on these issues. With our European colleagues, we will continue raising them. We raised them most recently at the meeting of Ministers' deputies at the Council of Europe on 2 December, when the arrest of two journalists, the importance of freedom of the press and expression in Turkey and the need to ensure a strong and healthy democracy were emphasised. The rule of law and human rights, including that of freedom of expression, are core principles of the EU. Deputy Crowe will be aware that these are prerequisites for accession to the Union. Ireland is clear that Turkey must live up to the same standards and commitments as all other candidate countries. Progress in the accession process can only be made based on clear benchmarks and criteria.

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