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

I am very concerned at developments relating to LGBTI+ people in Poland. The principles of equality and non-discrimination are enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. It is important that these principles are protected and promoted throughout the Union.

The Government has expressed its concerns regarding this issue publicly. My colleague, the Minister of State with responsibility for European affairs, has written to his counterpart in the Polish Government in the past month, emphasising the deep commitment of the Irish people to the fundamental values enshrined in EU treaties, including respect for human rights.

Advancing human rights is central to Irish foreign policy. We are committed to promoting the rights of LGBTI+ people, who continue to suffer disproportionate levels of violence and discrimination around the world. Ireland continues to support initiatives in the EU and other international forums which promote and protect the rights of LGBTI+ people and condemn violence and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Irish Embassy in Poland undertakes a number of initiatives, including with local non-governmental organisations, to raise awareness of and facilitate discussion on the rights of LGBTI people. Our ambassador also signs an annual letter in support of the Warsaw equality parade and other such parades around the country. This year's letter was published on 27 September and was signed by 50 ambassadors and heads of international representations. The letter expresses support in particular for efforts to raise public awareness of issues affecting LGBTI people.

The ambassador is currently engaged in a series of meetings with NGOs to hear their perspectives on recent developments in Poland and to see how the embassy can best work to support them. These meetings will help the embassy to plan further supports. We will also continue to work bilaterally and at an EU level to promote and protect the rights of LGBTI people across the EU and beyond.

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