In a statement this morning, Fianna Fáil Senator Malcolm Byrne has said that he intends to put forward a motion in the Seanad this evening highlighting human rights abuses by the Chinese state.
“While recognising the importance of a constructive relationship with China, the party has stated clearly that a blind eye cannot be shown to certain actions by Beijing,” the statement read.
Byrne further went on to say that “Irish foreign policy is underpinned by a respect for human rights.”
“We need to continue to raise what is happening to minorities and to those who disagree with the Chinese Communist Party,” he said.
The motion comes after Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang’s visit to Dublin last week, wherein he met with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to discuss economic and trade cooperation matters.
Byrne said that he would also be seeking details of the discussions last week between the Taoiseach and the Chinese Premier.
The motion is scheduled to be debated at 19:30 this evening.