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

I thank all the Deputies for their contributions this evening. As I said in my opening remarks, the question of Catalan independence remains a deeply divisive and contentious issue, not just in Catalonia but in all of Spain. It is very clear from the contributions that what is happening in Spain and Catalonia matters to each and every one of us in this Chamber and beyond, for reasons I have already outlined. Spain is a close ally, partner and friend of ours in the European Union. Many of our people call Spain their home for much of the year and vice versa. As many speakers outlined, as a country we have seen what conflict can do and how important it is to find a resolution to that conflict. However, while tensions are running high, we cannot forget that Spain is an established democracy that is committed to the rule of law. It is only through the democratic process with full respect for the law that differences of opinion should be contested. We should not lose sight of the fact that the case presented to the Supreme Court of Spain was presented on a legal and constitutional issue. We know how complex constitutions can be. Let us not simplify a very complex issue. Furthermore, just as we would expect other countries to respect our legal system, we must respect the independence and integrity of the Spanish courts.

The Government remains of the view that it is for all Catalans and all Spaniards to arrive at a shared view of the steps to be taken within their laws and democratic institutions to support a process of reconciliation. Internal divisions, contesting aspirations and robust debates are all to be expected within a democracy. As I said, however, these must be resolved in keeping with the rule of law. They cannot be resolved through violence. We have all seen the images of protests in recent days, including scenes of confrontations. Most of those who have been demonstrating have been doing so peacefully. Reports of incidents of violence are of huge concern, and I share the dismay felt by my colleagues and many people in Ireland and elsewhere at the scenes of violent disturbances in Catalonia. I am concerned by the impact this has on people's lives and the political uncertainty to which it has given rise. I reiterate, however, that there is no place for violence in politics. We must always find a solution through peaceful means.

In Catalonia and elsewhere in Spain, as in our democracy, public representatives and citizens must always work together to advance goals democratically. Establishing the validity and legitimacy of political efforts through the institutions requires the broadest possible consensus within the law. That is why I remain very clearly of the view that it is for all parties in Spain to arrive at a shared view of what steps within Spain's laws and democratic institutions might best support a process of resolution. Radical violent actions cannot be acceptable. Any difference of opinion must be contested peacefully with full respect for the law and the rights of all citizens.

Finally, the balance between the freedom to demonstrate and the need for law and order must be protected so that people can go about their normal lives without fear. Citizens also deserve clarity that the rule of law extends to and protects them. That is why we continue to support a resolution of the current situation in Spain that is based on democracy and the rule of law. We will continue to remain engaged with the ambassador and our colleagues in the Irish embassy in Spain. We will continue to update colleagues on any further developments.

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