Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I move:

That Dáil Éireann approves the terms of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and its Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Kazakhstan, of the other part, signed at Astana on 21st December, 2015, a copy of which was laid before Dáil Éireann on 6th July, 2018.

I welcome the opportunity to discuss the motion proposed by the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. It was considered by the Select Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade on 23 October. My colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy McEntee, very much appreciated the discussion with the members of the committee on this important motion. The enhanced partnership and co-operation agreement will provide a framework for strengthening the bilateral relationship between the European Union and Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan has already ratified the agreement, as have 23 EU member states. The European Parliament gave its approval in December 2017. Some parts of the agreement where the European Union has exclusive competence are being applied on a provisional basis, pending ratification by all parties.

While it is important in a political and economic context, we must not forget that respect for democratic principles, human rights and fundamental freedoms are an essential element of the agreement. As mentioned during the discussion with the select committee, the situation as regards human rights in Kazakhstan is challenging. While progress has been made on reform, including in the criminal justice and administrative sectors, it is clear that more must be done. The structured engagement for which the agreement provides will allow Ireland and the European Union greater scope to encourage progress on human rights and good governance. Ireland, together with the European Union and fellow member states, continues to encourage reform within Kazakhstan, particularly in the areas of the rule of law, freedom of expression or belief, and human rights. We are in a better position to influence change within the framework of the agreement where we can engage constructively on these matters. Surely it is better to see incremental progress over a long period on the basis of engagement, rather than end up with restricted engagement where we have no influence. The European Union and Kazakhstan have an annual dialogue in the area of human rights and the next dialogue is due to take place later this month. Although the agreement is of unlimited duration, if any party is in breach of its obligations in respect of human rights, appropriate measures can be taken in response, up to and including termination. It is important to point that out.

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