Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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400. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the concerning activities relating to the murder of an investigate journalist (details supplied) in Malta; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19129/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the recent developments related to the case of the October 2017 murder of investigative journalist, Daphne Caruana Galizia.

While it is not our practice to comment on ongoing criminal investigations in other EU Member States, Ireland and our EU partners have condemned in absolute terms the murder of Ms Caruana Galizia, which represents an attack on freedom of expression; a fundamental right in any democracy. It is essential for a healthy democracy that journalists feel safe to pursue their work, free from the threat of intimidation, harassment and violence.

Together with EU partners, we have called for a thorough and independent investigation into the murder of Ms Caruana Galizia. In a case such as this, it is vitally important that there is trust in the integrity of the investigation and the primacy of the rule of law.

Our Ambassador in Malta has attended the public inquiry into Ms Caruana Galizia’s murder, which started in December 2019. The Ambassador has also met with family members of Ms Caruana Galizia. Together with the representatives of several other EU Member States, Ireland will continue to actively monitor the situation.