Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank both Deputies for raising what is an extremely important issue. The Government's position remains the same as it was in the previous eight statements, which is that the situation requires the attention of the UN Human Rights Council. We have raised the issue of Bahrain with the council and we will be sure to raise it again. I reassure both Deputies that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will continue to raise our voice about the human rights situation both multilaterally and through various organisations. We co-sponsored the UN Human Rights Council resolutions calling on states to investigate alleged human rights violations. That is abuse suffered by detainees and in particular where there is death, torture, cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment, as well as to ensure there is proper investigation which provides effective remedies to victims, as Deputy Niall Collins has raised. We are also co-sponsors of Human Rights Council and UN General Assembly resolutions which concern human rights and the administration of justice.

I am especially worried and the Department is gravely concerned that after seven years of a moratorium on the death penalty, the Bahraini Government has again begun executing prisoners. I reaffirm Ireland's unequivocal opposition to capital punishment in all circumstances and cases. The abolition of the death penalty is an international priority for this country. Our officials regularly visit and convey our stance at various levels with the bodies on the ground or with member state colleagues and we will continue to do so. We are highlighting our grave concern at the ending of the de facto moratorium on the death penalty and reaffirming our unequivocal opposition to capital punishment in all circumstances.

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