Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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14. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to an attempted coup in Venezuela that was foiled and revealed on 12 February 2015; his views on attempted anti-democratic coups in Venezuela; and if he will contact the Venezuelan Government to outline his support for the democratic institutions of the Venezuelan state. [8278/15]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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The situation in Venezuela is a matter of great concern. As I have indicated before, the deaths, casualties and detentions arising from the unrest there require full, impartial investigation in accordance with due legal process. The apparently high levels of impunity in the case of serious crimes is a matter of further concern as is, indeed, the serious economic situation affecting the people of Venezuela. I share the concerns expressed in this regard by EU High Representative Mogherini, and those expressed previously by High Representative Ashton, concerning the detention of political figures and of students. Human rights, including the freedom of expression, of assembly and of association must be protected and upheld. I renew my call for all parties, including government, opposition, students and civil society, to work together to find a consensus for overcoming Venezuela’s current difficulties.

This month is the anniversary of the protests last year which resulted in a considerable number of deaths and detentions. We are following the situation closely and are aware of recent reports, including those to which the Deputy refers. I remain of the view that the best hope for progress in Venezuela is for an inclusive dialogue that will address, through peaceful means alone, the legitimate concerns of all parties.