I propose to take Questions Nos. 195 and 198 together.
I remain very concerned about this matter and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will continue to monitor relevant developments.
As an EU candidate country and member of the Council of Europe, Türkiye is expected to uphold the highest democratic standards and to ensure the respect of fundamental rights for all. Ireland views the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms as essential elements of a democratic society, protected under international human rights instruments to which Türkiye is a party.
Every person, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic, is entitled to equality, dignity and the full enjoyment of their human rights. The promotion and protection of the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons is a domestic and foreign policy priority for Ireland, and this is reflected in our campaign for membership of the UN Human Rights Council where defending the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons is one of our five thematic priorities.
Ireland continues to support initiatives in the EU and other international fora which promote and protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ people, and which condemn violence and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Ireland stands in full solidarity with LGBTIQ+ persons and their allies in Türkiye. We very recently aligned with like-minded countries to raise our concerns both with the authorities in Ankara and at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg – calling on Turkish authorities to fully respect the rule of law and the rights guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights.
Ireland does not impose any unilateral sanctions regimes but implements UN and EU sanctions. The Council of the European Union adopts EU sanctions through Council decisions, which must be agreed unanimously. When sanction proposals are brought to the relevant working groups, Ireland considers whether to support them based on the strength of the evidence presented.
I will keep potential and proportionate responses under review, including through bilateral channels or opportunities for coordination with EU Member States, or through other multilateral fora.
