Patricia Ryan (Kildare South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to speak on the motion. I do not often agree with Michael O'Leary, but in anyone's language, the action by the Belarusian Government last month was state-sponsored piracy. I send my solidarity to the people of Belarus, who are suffering under the Lukashenko regime. In particular, I send my solidarity to Mr. Protasevich and his girlfriend, Ms Sapega. It is clear that Mr. Protasevich's arrest was the object of the exercise. It has been reported that there were several KGB agents on the flight.

I commend the work of Belarusian exiles in applying pressure to companies like Rolls-Royce and British American Tobacco, which are seen as supporters of the regime. They have also contacted holders of Belarusian bonds listed on the London Stock Exchange. No company with any regard for human rights should have any relationship whatsoever with Belarus.

We need a strong response from the EU. This is a serious issue that requires a serious response. Citizens of European countries were endangered by the actions of the Belarusian Government and there must be a commensurate response. Otherwise, it will set a dangerous precedent. Where is the UN on this matter? The UN needs fundamental reform. It is not acceptable that Israel has acted with impunity or for Belarus to do the same.

Freedom of the press is an important part of democracy. It plays a vital role in informing citizens about public affairs and monitoring the actions of government at all levels. In a cynical move, a transcript broadcast by Belarusian television implied that the Ryanair crew had asked to land in Minsk, which was not the case. It is clear that Belarus has a severe democratic deficit. We owe it to the people of Belarus to stand up to this regime and to call its behaviour out for what it is.

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