Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 99: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his approach in relation to the current repressive policies against Tibet; if he will call for the introduction of international independent observers in Tibet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32820/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Irish Government conveys its concerns about the situation in Tibet and related human rights issues directly to the Chinese authorities, through regular diplomatic contacts in both Dublin and Beijing. The European Union, on behalf of its Member States, also raises human rights issues on a regular basis with China. This includes human rights problems in Tibet and the disturbing events in Kirti Tibetan monastery in Sichuan Province in China. The High Representative, Catherine Ashton, speaking on behalf of the European Union, has also expressed her concern at the situation at Kirti monastery and has urged the Chinese authorities to allow Tibetans to exercise their religious, cultural and educational rights. These issues are also discussed as part of the formal comprehensive human rights dialogue between the European Union and China. The most recent of these formal dialogues took place in June of this year.

Human rights issues in China, are also the subject of attention and debate at the United Nations in New York and at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

A group of United Nations experts, led by the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, Mr. Heiner Bielefeldt, an independent human rights expert appointed by the Human Rights Council, voiced concern on 1 November over reports of human rights restrictions on the Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China's Sichuan province, including allegations of intimidation, security raids and surveillance of the sites and religious activities. Such restrictive measures, the UN experts noted, not only curtail the right to freedom of religion or belief, but also serve to further exacerbate existing tensions.

The Deputy will be aware that the Irish Government is committed to the One-China policy, which acknowledges Tibet as part of China. We believe that constructive dialogue between the Chinese Government and representatives of the Dalai Lama is the best way forward to address differences and tensions in Tibet over issues of culture, language, religion and identity. It is essential, for long-term peace and stability in the region, that these two sides reach an agreement on the future of Tibet. To this end, we encourage an early resumption of dialogue by the parties.