Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), also known as the Uganda-Tanzania Crude Oil Pipeline, is a joint venture project between Uganda and Tanzania, as well as a number of international investors. Announced in 2016, the construction is now planned to begin in the coming months. The pipeline would be the first of its kind in Uganda. Those supporting it claim that its construction and operation will be of major social and economic benefit to the people of Uganda and Tanzania. The project has also faced opposition from environmental and civil rights groups focused on the potential impact on established livelihoods and sensitive ecosystems.

The reported handling of the recent demonstrations in Uganda against the EACOP is a matter for concern. Our Embassy in Kampala, along with EU and other partners, is following the issue closely. The Embassy and partners have underlined with the Ugandan authorities the fundamental importance of the freedom to participate in public debate and peaceful demonstrations.

Ireland’s engagement in Uganda is based on our international development policy, A Better World, and guided by the Government’s Strategy for Africa to 2025. In line with these strategies, Ireland’s development and cooperation work in Uganda focuses on helping the furthest behind first. Through our programme, we have had a strong emphasis on promoting peace and security and respect for human rights and the rule of law. Through the Embassy in Kampala, we are supporting local civil society organisations, human rights defenders and NGOs.