Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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114. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the ongoing protests in Hong Kong and the escalating tensions and violence; if he has discussed the situation with his Chinese counterpart; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41743/19]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I am concerned about the ongoing protests in Hong Kong, and in particular the escalation in the levels of violence in recent weeks. Ireland fully supports fundamental freedoms such as the freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful demonstration. As I have noted previously in this House, Ireland has consistently called for these freedoms to be upheld, while encouraging all sides to refrain from violence, to exercise restraint, and to engage in an inclusive dialogue. In that regard, we welcome recent moves towards dialogue from Chief Executive Carrie Lam and the Hong Kong authorities.

I have not discussed the protests with my Chinese counterpart, as I have not had an opportunity to meet with him since the protests began in June. At a bilateral level, officials in my Department have engaged with the relevant Chinese authorities on the matter, including with representatives of the Hong Kong Government. Furthermore, the Consul General of Ireland in Hong Kong, and the Ambassador of Ireland to China, along with the EU Office, and representatives of other EU Member States in Hong Kong, have all been engaging regularly with Hong Kong authorities on this matter.

The EU, with the support of Ireland, has issued statements in response to developments in Hong Kong. The most recent statement was released on the 2 October by High Representative Mogherini on behalf of the EU. This statement recalled the EU’s support for the “one country, two systems” principle, and reiterated the EU position that restraint, de-escalation and dialogue are the only way forward. During the most recent session of the Human Rights Council on 10 September, the EU also expressed support for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights' call for the demonstrations to remain peaceful and for the respect of fundamental rights and freedoms, including the freedom of assembly.

The Consulate General of Ireland in Hong Kong, along with the Embassy of Ireland to China, and officials in my Department, continue to monitor the situation closely.