Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 121: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position with respect to the ongoing difficulties being experienced by the Kurdish community in Turkey; if he is in receipt of submissions from Kurdish groups here seeking aid and assistance in this regard; if such offers of assistance have been made by the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19714/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am very aware of the ongoing difficulties being experienced by the Kurdish community, including in relation to the escalation of violence in Southeast Turkey, particularly in recent weeks. This has led to frequent clashes between the security forces and armed groups and has resulted, tragically, in a substantial number of casualties, including mortalities. Very regrettably there have also been a number of civilian deaths. This has occurred since the resumption of violence by the PKK, an organisation which appears on the EU list of terrorist organisations.

The Government's concerns about the human rights situation in Turkey, including the situation of some 15 million people of Kurdish origin, are raised on a regular basis in our contacts with the Turkish Government and its representatives. Together with our EU partners, and the European Commission, we continue to monitor the situation closely, including in the context of the ongoing Turkey-EU accession negotiations.

In recent years Turkey has made significant progress in the adoption of wide-ranging political and legal reforms. Legislation has been enacted aimed at strengthening the cultural rights of all citizens, including those of Kurdish origin. In this context we welcome developments currently under way to provide broadcasting in the Kurdish language.

I am not aware of an approach for assistance from Kurdish groups based in Ireland. However, a London-based Kurdish group has recently been in contact with officials from my Department seeking support for a number of projects, including in relation to research, training, and public awareness. This request is currently under consideration.