I propose to take Questions Nos. 145 and 147 together.
In relation to the general situation in Iran, recent developments and Ireland's response, I refer to my earlier reply to Question no 68 today (ref PQ8625/86).
Further to that reply, it is the Government’s policy to maintain diplomatic channels with Iran. This includes the maintenance of resident diplomatic missions in both capitals.
We have many serious concerns about Iran, including about its malign regional influence, supply of weapons to Russia in support of its war of aggression against Ukraine, its support for proxies in the Middle East, its nuclear programme, and its persistent abuse of human rights, including the repression of protests, denial of women’s rights and continued high number of executions.
We consistently raise these points with Iran bilaterally including via the Embassy of Ireland in Iran, as a member of the EU and in UN fora.
Having a presence on the ground strengthens our ability to do this, to monitor and understand developments in the country and to provide services to the small number of Irish citizens in Iran.
So far as I am aware, no EU partner is considering downgrading or breaking those diplomatic relations.
