Noel Rock (Dublin North West, Fine Gael)
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602. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the referendum taking place in Turkey in April 2017, which could give President Erdoğan more powers; his further views on the future relationship with Turkey if the referendum passes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13973/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I have repeatedly raised my ongoing concerns about human rights, democracy, rule of law and freedom of expression in Turkey. I am monitoring closely the Constitutional amendment package which was approved by the Turkish Grand Assembly on 21 January and which is now to be put to the people in a referendum scheduled to take place on 16 April. If passed, the amendments will invest considerably more power in the office of President, and reduce the role of Parliament. While the Head of State in many democracies has a strong executive function, the ongoing concerns at EU level and internationally about democracy and the rule of law in Turkey mean that there are serious considerations about the substance, timing and context of the constitutional proposals. The assessment of the Venice Commission emphasises those concerns very directly in its assessment of the proposed amendments, and also expresses concerns that the referendum is not being conducted in line with democratic standards due to the restrictions in place as part of the on-going State of Emergency imposed on 20 July after the attempted coup.

I would stress the EU statement of 13 March on the issue, which highlights concerns at the excessive concentration of powers in one office, with consequent effect on the necessary checks and balances in a democracy and on the independence of the judiciary. The EU encourages Turkey to deepen its cooperation with the Council of Europe and its bodies, and to address the concerns they have raised.

We also agree with the EU in acknowledging that Turkey is facing many challenges and reiterate that we stand by Turkey in the fight against terrorism.

Ireland believes that constructive engagement at all levels within the established political framework is the best way to encourage Turkey to renew a commitment to human rights, democracy, freedom of expression and the rule of law, and that matters of concern can only be resolved through open and direct communication channels.

That said, I must also express my strong regret that in the course of the referendum campaign, President Erdogan has made totally unacceptable claims about two fellow EU Member States. Such claims have no place in the dialogue between friendly countries.