Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 379: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the arrest in Malaysia of human rights activists, including a person (details supplied), following a protest to mark International Human Rights day; if his attention has been further drawn to reports that Malaysian police have used tear gas and water cannons to break up human rights demonstrations, and that persons detained under so-called security legislation in Malaysia have been subjected to physical, mental and sexual abuse; if he will make representations to the Malaysian authorities regarding these arrests and human rights abuses in general; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3128/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the arrest of 8 people, including 5 lawyers and the Malaysian citizen under reference, on 9 December 2007 during a protest to mark International Human Rights Day. I understand these individuals were charged under Malaysia's Police Act, and were released shortly thereafter. A date has not yet been set for their trial. I have asked that the Embassy in Kuala Lumpur continue to monitor these cases closely.

I am also aware of recent arrests under the Internal Security Act. Ireland and its EU partners have previously expressed serious concerns to the Government of Malaysia about the use and scope of the Act. While fully respecting the duty of the Government of Malaysia to ensure security and the rule of law within its borders, I believe more could and needs to be done to facilitate peaceful protests on human rights issues. Ireland, together with our EU partners will continue to monitor the situation closely on human rights in Malaysia.