Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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396. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Ireland is sending observers to monitor elections under the auspices of the OSCE this year; if not, the reason therefor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28566/20]

Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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The Department of Foreign Affairs continues to advise against non-essential travel to most overseas destinations due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is based on official public health advice and is in place to protect people's well-being, which is our first priority. In the case of election observation missions in particular, the risks posed by overseas travel at this time are compounded by factors such as extensive in-country travel and interactions with observers from a significant number of other countries, potentially exposing not only election monitors but those with whom they come into contact in the host country to COVID-19.

In light of this, in our role as facilitators of the volunteer roster participation in the EU and ODHIR election observation missions, we have taken the decision not to nominate volunteers for election observation missions at this time. My officials are keeping the situation under ongoing review in accordance with Government policy 'Living with Covid', as well as keeping abreast of developments with EU and OSCE focal points for election observation missions. As mission requests arise, we will evaluate (taking into account our overall health and travel advice as well as Covid-19 measures implemented by mission organisers as well as host countries) whether participation would be safe for Irish observers, as well as for the host country and other participants, and will decide on nominating volunteers accordingly.

We look forward to Ireland’s return to full participation in election observation missions, under conditions that balance this invaluable contribution to safeguarding democracy with the exigencies of the pandemic. Ireland remains as committed as ever to upholding democratic values, the rule of law, and human rights, and will continue to promote these through all other diplomatic means available.