Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We know the Helms-Burton Act is a law of the United States and, therefore, its jurisdiction should be confined to the United States. It is akin to Ireland making a law and expecting it to be applied in another country. As the Tánaiste said, the Act shows no respect for international law. It is also a violation of Cuban sovereignty and undermines Cuba's constitution, which is about abiding by a commitment to international law, including territorial integrity. It also runs contrary to the principles of the UN charter. Experts have noted that the Helms-Burton Act smacks of imperialism, and I agree. There is no doubt it is intended to strangle the Cuban economy, which the United States has been doing for many years.

Our group, Independents 4 Change, will introduce a motion in this respect. The US is now trying to internationalise its unilateral blockade against Cuba. It is doing so by taking severe measures against third countries, including the imposition of hefty fines, some of which we have already seen. As of last month, very serious measures will be taken, which will see individuals and companies that try to trade with Cuba severely punished. This will deter such trade. People could also be denied entry into the United States. Lawsuits are already under way in the United States. While the European Union is saying the right things, in the meantime the blockade continues to do irreparable damage in Cuba.

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