Written answers

Wednesday, 5 November 2008

Department of Foreign Affairs

Human Rights Issues

10:00 pm

Photo of Jack WallJack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 146: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the deteriorating situation of human rights in Colombia; if he has voiced his concerns to Colombian representatives here. [38389/08]

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I am closely monitoring developments in Colombia, including the human rights situation. Together with our EU partners, Ireland is keenly aware of the difficulties in the implementation of the Justice and Peace Law, the legal framework for the peace process in Colombia. I am particularly concerned about reports suggesting that the situation is deteriorating in relation to human rights defenders and victims. At the same time, this year has seen some notable successes by the Colombian government in its efforts to bring peace and stability to Colombia. These include the rescue of Ingrid Betancourt and 14 other hostages held by the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC) on 2 July and the escape of former Colombian congressman Oscar Tulio Lizcano from the FARC in October. On 16 October, the FARC informed a group of Colombians, including prominent public figures, that it will exchange letters with the group to discuss the possible release of hostages the rebels are holding.

Ireland contributed €150,000 in 2008 to the Organisation of American States' Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, which works in Colombia as well as other countries in the region. My officials are in regular contact with the Colombian Embassy in London, which is accredited to Ireland. In addition, Ireland has contact with Colombian government and civil society through our Embassy in Mexico City which is accredited to Colombia, and through information-sharing and joint action with our EU partners, some of whom have resident Missions in Colombia.

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