Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I know there is very genuine concern in the House across all parties about this issue, and people have raised concerns about Hong Kong with me directly outside of the House as well. We are taking the matter very seriously. The statement I made after this law was introduced was probably stronger than any other that I can recall that was made across the EU. The UK has made very strong statements on the matter, but as a result of the statement I made, there was further contact with the Chinese Embassy. We have been very direct and open about our concerns. They are real. As a result, we are looking at this extradition agreement for the reasons Deputy Richmond has just outlined. I still think, however, that open dialogue, that is, direct and respectful conversation, even if forceful at times, is important to the diplomatic relationship we need to maintain with a country such as China. We will therefore continue that dialogue but we will also look to make an informed decision on this extradition agreement and talk to other EU countries in a similar position to ours.

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