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

From passports in Mayo to Nicaragua, but I am happy to take that question.

I am deeply concerned by the deteriorating democratic and human rights situation in Nicaragua, in particular, the ongoing repression of opposition politicians, members of the media, human rights defenders and civil society representatives. I am also very concerned by the arrest and detention earlier this year of a number of potential presidential candidates, many of whom are now being prosecuted under the foreign agents law, which contravenes basic democratic principles and seriously undermines the electoral process in Nicaragua.

This law, alongside others recently adopted, serves only to tighten restrictions on civil and political rights and fundamental freedoms and hinders the work of civil society and non-governmental organisations in the lead-in to the presidential elections due to be held on 7 November.

I support the statement of the EU High Representative, Dr. Josep Borrell, on 10 June calling for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained potential presidential candidates and all other political prisoners, ensuring respect for their human, civil and political rights. Inclusive dialogue is the only way to resolve the political, economic and social crisis in Nicaragua.

Ireland, through the EU, has consistently called on the Nicaraguan Government to abide by its own commitments, its constitution and international human rights laws and standards. Ireland is also supportive of the EU's introduction of restrictive measures against targeted individuals in Nicaragua who are responsible for serious human rights violations and-or whose actions undermine democracy and the rule of law. On 2 August, the EU Foreign Affairs Council imposed further restrictive measures on eight additional individuals, including the Nicaraguan Vice President, which means that a total of 14 persons are now subject to an asset freeze and travel ban.

Ireland, along with our EU partners, will continue to support efforts towards reaching a peaceful and negotiated solution in Nicaragua. Officials in my Department, including the Embassy of Ireland in Mexico, which covers Nicaragua, will continue to monitor the situation closely in co-operation with the EU delegation in Managua.

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