Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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201. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on recent developments in Turkey including the detention of MPs from the Peoples' Democratic Party and the curbing of media freedom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34174/16]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I am deeply worried about the most recent developments in Turkey and on hearing last Friday, November 4, of the detention of the co-chairs of the People’s Democratic Party (HDP) and several of its elected members, I issued a statement, in which I outlined my concerns at their arrests and at the intensifying media crackdown. I also expressed my sympathy to those who were bereaved or injured by the car bomb in Diyarbakir.

Rule of law, freedom of expression, including media freedom, and democracy are core EU principles that must be upheld at all times. We do not underestimate the impact of the failed coup in July, which I continue to condemn as a criminal act and an attack on democracy, nor the challenges confronting Turkey in its fight against terrorism, but the response must be measured and proportionate.

Ireland participated in the preparation of the statement made by the EU on 8 November, which criticises Turkey for its recent actions. While the statement reiterates that the EU stands ready to continue to engage in political dialogue with Turkey at all levels, it also expresses grave concern at the suggestions to reinstate the death penalty, regrets the restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including the arrest of journalists, and is critical of the actions taken against members of the opposition.

Ireland, along with other Member States, will continue to monitor the situation closely.