Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 75: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent change in power in Madagascar. [15385/09]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Developments in Madagascar over the past number of months are a matter of concern. The deposition by force on 17 March of Marc Ravalomanana, the democratically-elected President was clearly unconstitutional, and the regime led by opposition leader Andry Rajoelina lacks democratic legitimacy. The suspension of parliament by the self-proclaimed transitional administration on 20 March is a worrying sign which seems to confirm a lack of respect for democracy and for the constitutional order. Tragically, more than 100 people have lost their lives in the political upheavals in Madagascar since January.

The international community has been paying close attention to the situation in Madagascar since the crisis there first developed. A process of mediation between the government and opposition, supported by the United Nations, African Union (AU) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), broke down at the end of February. The AU has called for a rapid return to the constitutional order through an inclusive process involving all political stakeholders in Madagascar.

The European Union, for its part, has urged the parties in Madagascar to comply fully with the provisions of the constitution, and to overcome their differences through dialogue and in accordance with the law. We have also stated clearly our condemnation of all attempts to seize power through undemocratic means. The unconstitutional change of power is likely to have implications for the delivery of EU aid to Madagascar. EU Ambassadors in Antanarivo are following the situation closely, and will clarify the EU's position and our expectations in dialogue with Madagascar.

The people of Madagascar, who are among the poorest in the world, have suffered greatly from the climate of fear and uncertainty generated by this crisis, as well as from disruptions in basic social services. Madagascar urgently needs a stable and democratic government which can fulfil its people's need for peace, security and economic development. I particularly welcome the active engagement of the African Union in this crisis, and the clear condemnation by the AU of unconstitutional transfers of power.