Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I reiterate that Ireland has continuously voiced its support for the democratically elected national assembly, in which Mr. Guaidó was elected President last month. We have also urged Mr. Maduro to fully respect and restore the independence and powers of the national assembly.

Ireland is committed to finding ways to foster shared democratic solutions that bring political stability and address the pressing needs of the Venezuelan people, including by increasing EU humanitarian support. A credible, meaningful dialogue leading to an inclusive democratic solution is the most effective way of achieving a peaceful and sustainable resolution of the current crisis in Venezuela. As I outlined in my original reply, the people of Venezuela are living through this crisis. The recent protests are a demonstration of their demand for a proper democracy. It is imperative that the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are respected. I wholly condemn the use of violence against these protesters by the Venezuelan authorities. I offer my condolences to the families of the victims and call on the authorities to refrain from the inappropriate use of violence against peaceful protesters.

Ireland supports urgent measures to address the humanitarian crisis and reiterates calls for humanitarian actors to be allowed to operate without interference to ensure the utmost is done to mitigate against the grave effects of the crisis and alleviate the suffering of the Venezuelan people to the greatest extent possible. We will continue to consult closely our EU partners at the highest level on this issue. The days and weeks ahead are crucial for the future of the people of Venezuela, and Ireland, in step with our EU partners, has emphasised the right of the Venezuelan people to choose their future freely. The Tánaiste and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will remain in close contact with their EU counterparts to follow this extraordinary issue.

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