Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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30. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade further to Parliamentary Question No. 449 of 8 November 2022, if he will follow up with the UN Human Rights Committee, requesting any updates in relation to this case, including any actions taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8193/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 30 together.

In the past, I have received correspondence related to this case, as have officials in my Department. I understand that members of the Oireachtas have also received details of this case.

The protection and promotion of human rights is a core pillar of Ireland's foreign policy. In particular, the protection of human rights defenders is a key foreign policy priority for Ireland in our bilateral, EU, and UN multilateral engagement, including at the United Nations Security Council.

I have noted previously the views adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Committee in communication No. 2924/2016 which established Algeria’s responsibility in the alleged kidnapping of Mr Ahmed Braih.

On 14 February, officials from my Department met with representatives from Polisario Front and raised this case. Officials from my Department have also raised this case with the Algerian Embassy in Dublin. My Department will continue to raise this issue, including when appropriate with the Algerian authorities.