John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
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146. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on and response to a report by a human rights organisation (details supplied) in Colombia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33779/21]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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With regards to the human rights report referenced in the Question, I would like to express my serious concern at the reported violence. I trust that the Colombian authorities will fully investigate and bring those responsible for abuses or human rights violations, be they members of the security forces or other individuals, to justice. 

I note the recent statement by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, detailing reports of “private individuals” firing shots at protesters “in the presence of police officers". I support Ms Bachelet's call for the end to all forms of violence, including vandalism, and for dialogue and the need to ensure respect for the life and dignity of all people. I remain deeply concerned at reports of disproportionate use of force by the police in Colombia against protestors and observers, as well as reports of attacks on the police and police infrastructure. The Embassy of Ireland in Colombia supports and works closely with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Colombia and Ireland contributes to the core budget for their important work.

I echo the message of EU High Representative/Vice-President Borrell following his call with President Duque of Colombia on 22 May 2021, that the solution to the current crisis should be reached through inclusive dialogue and negotiation. In that vein, EU Special Representative for Human Rights and EU Special Envoy for the Peace Process in Colombia, Eamon Gilmore, conducted a high-level visit to Colombia last week to discuss the situation. I hope that progress can be made in the period ahead on negotiations on a national dialogue. 

After decades of violence, Colombia needs to continue to strengthen the advances made on the path towards peace. Colombia’s citizens deserve stability, safety and certainty, especially in view of the serious challenges the country is facing from the COVID-19 pandemic.

I would like to express again Ireland's solidarity with the Government and people of Colombia in facing these challenges in a peaceful, inclusive and constructive manner and in forging a consensus on dealing with them. 

Officials in my Department, including at the Embassy of Ireland in Colombia, will continue to closely monitor this complex and evolving situation.