Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2026
115. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she has raised concerns with the US about human rights violations in the United States, including the execution of peaceful protesters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8703/26]
View answer133. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she has been in contact with the US ambassador to express Ireland’s concern at the loss of life at protests in Minneapolis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8713/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 115 and 133 together.
Recent events in Minneapolis have shocked us all.
Where a civilian loses their life in an interaction with any government agency or service there should be a transparent and thorough investigation. I note that President Trump has sent Tom Honan, US border ‘czar’, to Minnesota and understand that he will lead investigations.
While U.S. immigration policy is a matter for the American authorities, any immigration enforcement actions, in any country, should be undertaken in line with human rights and international law standards.
I regularly engage with representatives of the U.S. Administration and with members of Congress, and will be doing so this week in Washington, as part of my first visit to the US as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. Protecting and promoting human rights is a core pillar of Ireland's approach to foreign policy. It forms an important part of our dialogue with all partners, including in the United States.
