Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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17. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the recent infringement by Poland on LGBTQ rights and attempts to classify LGBT as an ideology. [13522/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I am concerned regarding developments relating to LGBTI+ rights in Poland. The principles of equality and non-discrimination are enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. It is important that these principles are protected and promoted throughout the Union.

Advancing human rights is central to Ireland’s foreign policy, The Global Island.  Ireland is committed to promoting the rights of LGBTI+ persons who continue to suffer disproportionate levels of violence and discrimination around the world.  Ireland continues to support initiatives in international fora which promote and protect the rights of LGBTI+ persons, and which condemn violence and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Embassy of Ireland in Poland also undertakes a number of initiatives to this end to raise awareness of and facilitate discussion on the rights of LGBTI+ individuals. This includes taking part in the Warsaw Equality Parade each year.  The Embassy also works collaboratively with different NGOs in Poland to facilitate discussion around the issues facing LGBTI+ communities.

We will continue to work both bilaterally and at the EU level to promote and protect the rights of LGBTI+ communities across the EU and beyond.