Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 110: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has expressed concern to the US administration regarding the inclusion of Cuba on the list of countries designated by the US as a so-called axis of evil by the newly confirmed US Secretary of State. [2304/05]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am not aware that the US administration has taken the action described by the Deputy. I am aware that Dr. Rice referred to Cuba as an "outpost of tyranny" at her confirmation hearings in the US Senate.

The Government has long been concerned about human rights abuses in Cuba. At the same time, we continue to encourage a process of peaceful transition to a pluralist democracy and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in that country, as well as wishing to see a sustainable economic recovery and an improvement in the living standards of the Cuban people.

I look forward to meeting Dr. Rice and to discussing a range of international issues with her.