Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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403. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will support the release of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19809/15]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the advocacy work by a number of international NGOs in relation to this difficult case, including by Amnesty International. While we do not interfere in the internal judicial proceedings of other countries, we would of course urge that the case be resolved in accordance with Mexican law. The promotion and protection of human rights is a core principle of Ireland's foreign policy and we have prioritised the protection of trades unionists, human rights defenders and others who are in immediate danger. Our Embassy in Mexico participates actively in the EU-Mexico Human Rights Dialogue, which took place most recently in Mexico City on 15-16 April. In addition to consulting with civil society organisations, EU and Mexican human rights experts discussed a wide range of human rights issues, including challenges relating to the rule of law, the fight against impunity, and human rights defenders. The Embassy also maintains an active dialogue with international and local civil society partners in Mexico, including Amnesty, on a range of development and human rights issues.