Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 June 2024
45. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has engaged with his Greek counterpart in response to reports of the Greek coastguard having deliberately drowned migrants. [27494/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe loss of life by migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean is a great tragedy. Such tragic events highlight the urgent need to deal with migration in a comprehensive and holistic manner. Ireland regularly engages with Greek officials, as well as officials from all EU Member States, working in partnership to ensure humanitarian and international legal obligations are upheld. The protection of life and safety at sea remains paramount, irrespective of the circumstances that lead to people being in a situation of distress.
With respect to the specific allegations pertaining to the Greek coast guard, I note that Greece's Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy has said these allegations are being investigated by the country’s independent National Transparency Authority. It is important that Greek authorities take the necessary steps to ensure the delivery of justice in any instance where wrongdoing is found to have been committed.
