Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 109: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the oppressive efforts of the current regime in Burma to secure false electoral respectability and the steps that will be taken at EU and UN level to support the position of the democratic leader (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36127/10]

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

The Government remains closely engaged at both European Union and international level in monitoring the situation in Burma and in supporting the Burmese people in their struggle for democracy and human rights. In relation to the upcoming elections scheduled to be held in November, the electoral laws published in March indicate that the regime intends to control every aspect of the election's preparation, outcome and the ensuing future government. Instead of a free, fair and inclusive process, the elections, in my view, are likely to lack any real credibility. In their current form they seem intended only to maintain the regime's grip on the country.

Among the serious consequences of these laws are the restrictions placed on the registration of political parties and individuals, which have effectively forced Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy party, which has done much to promote justice, democracy and reconciliation in Burma, to disband as a political organisation.

Notwithstanding the difficult position in which ethnic minorities and political parties have been placed by the actions of the regime, I note that some ethnic groups are working to try to take advantage of the possible opportunity afforded by the elections to secure representation in local and national legislatures. However, in spite of this sign of good faith by such groups, I am most concerned at reports that the regime has moved to stifle further the rights of minorities in the lead-up to the elections.

At the recent ASEM summit, which the Taoiseach attended there was an agreed statement on Burma/Myanmar. ASEM leaders called on the Burmese government to take necessary measures to ensure that the November elections were free, fair and inclusive and marked a step towards a legitimate, constitutional, civilian system of government. They also sought the release of political prisoners and called on the regime to engage and cooperate with both the UN good offices mission and the international community. The statement was a significant, positive step forward for this particular forum, which includes many neighbours and associates of Burma.

I believe that a crucial element in the national reconciliation and democratisation process is the release without delay of all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi. This could contribute to a new atmosphere in advance of the elections, allowing space for the initiation of a process of national dialogue and reconciliation, involving all opposition and ethnic groups.

We also continue to support the good offices mission of the UN Secretary General and I call on the Burmese authorities to cooperate constructively with the mission and with his Special Envoy, Thomas Ojea Quintana.

As the poll date draws nearer, I will continue to work closely with our European and international partners in support of human rights and democracy in Burma.