Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 23: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, while the imperative of restoring economic growth and hence the foreign policy focus in the programme for Government on actions to achieve growth in exports trade and the development of new markets abroad is understandable, the reason there is no mention in the programme for Government of the United Nations, including its human rights mechanisms and Ireland's proposed role therein or of the Council of Europe, especially at a time when the European Court of Human Rights system is on the cusp of major reforms. [8777/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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As the Deputy will be aware, a key focus for my Department in the coming months will be on rebuilding Ireland's international reputation and leading on the international aspects of our economic recovery. The Department, through the Embassy network, has an important contribution to make in this regard, working closely with other Departments and the State Agencies.

The United Nations remains at the heart of Ireland's foreign policy. Our committed and active membership is testament to our belief in the importance of effective multilateralism, respect for international law and the defence of human rights. The universality of the UN affords it a unique legitimacy and authority, which provides an invaluable framework for common reflection and decision-making. The role and context provided by the UN is of paramount importance in maintaining international peace and security and in framing strategies to address global challenges, such as climate change, global poverty, and the threat posed by nuclear weapons. Ireland is a strong supporter and an active participant in the work of the United Nations, and I can assure the Deputy that we will continue to participate fully in all aspects of the work of the Organisation. For my own part, I intend to travel to New York in September to participate in the Ministerial Week of the UN General Assembly.

I can further assure the Deputy that the Government's commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights in Irish foreign policy is as strong as ever. As a sign of this commitment, since taking office I have reaffirmed Ireland's intention to seek membership of the UN Human Rights Council for the period 2012-2015 at elections scheduled to take place in May 2012. Ireland will be competing against some formidable opponents for a seat on the Council but we are determined to run a strong campaign, with the aim of being at the heart of the UN's principal forum on human rights issues.

Ireland is also a committed member of the Council of Europe, and, as a founder member, has consistently supported the Organisation in its work to promote the values of human rights, democracy and the rule of law on our continent. The impact of the European Convention on Human Rights and the judgements of the European Court of Human Rights on the protection of fundamental rights serve as evidence of the importance of the Council's work. Ireland also supports and is fully engaged in the discussions on the reform of the European Court of Human Rights.