Erin McGreehan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I second the motion and thank Senator Byrne for moving it. The Tánaiste is very welcome to our debate, which is a good opportunity to speak about China, particularly after the recent visit.

There are so many things, as Senator Byrne said, that are wonderful about China. However, none of us can hide from the many things that need our attention and action. Our motion outlines the continued detention of Jimmy Lai, a peaceful pro-democracy campaigner; the reported use of coerced testimony in cases involving the national security law; the repression of independent media and democratic activists in Hong Kong; the ongoing efforts of the Chinese Communist Party to destroy the culture of the people of Tibet, and the abuse of the rights of Tibetans; the genocide being perpetuated against the Uyghur people; and the repression of religious minorities, including Christians and Falun Gong.

I will go back to the detention of Jimmy Lai. He is a prominent pro-democracy campaigner and an entrepreneur who has dedicated his life to advocating for democratic principles and standing up against authoritarian rule. His detention sends a chilling message to all the world with regard to how China is suppressing dissenting voices. As we all recognise, it is a clear violation of basic human rights and the right of freedom of expression, which should be protected and respected by all nations.

The implementation of the national security law in Hong Kong has sparked significant concerns. This law grants Beijing unprecedented powers to suppress political dissent and undermine the autonomy promised to Hong Kong under the one country, two systems principle. We need to look at the suppression of independent media and democratic activists in Hong Kong, which we all agree is deeply troubling. We have witnessed the closure of pro-democracy newspapers and media organisations, leaving citizens with limited access to unbiased information. This not only undermines freedom of the press but it also restricts the ability of individuals to make informed decisions and hold their government accountable.

These concerns regarding China should not be overlooked or dismissed as internal matters. They impact us all. China is such a powerful country. This suppression of democracy impacts our world. It undermines the global commitment to human rights and democracy, eroding trust and necessary stability in international relations. It also undermines what we do at the United Nations and our faith in the UN's ability to stop aggression against people's human rights. It is important that Ireland holds China to account for its actions. We have a strong record in upholding human rights and pushing for human rights across the world and, as Senator Byrne said, the Tánaiste is at the forefront of that on many different arguments. We must urge the protection of human rights, freedom of expression and democratic principles. We also need to explore what else we can do to engage with China, emphasising the importance of upholding these rights.

We need to acknowledge Taiwan as more than an economic trading partner. We should further our diplomatic links, as other countries have, and celebrate Taiwan's democracy. It is rare in that part of the world to have free, open and fair elections. Only two weeks ago, Taiwan held a very successful election.

We need to acknowledge the plight of the Uyghur people. A detailed report last year by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights documented far-reaching, arbitrary and discriminatory restrictions on human rights and fundamental freedoms in violation of international norms and standards.

I only have a few seconds left. As we increase our trade with China, are we compromising our morality for better economic security? We must question our trade agreements with China because in spite of every single aggression against human rights, we are making China richer and supporting ourselves economically through trade but where is the cost-benefit for Irish people in upholding human rights?