OBSERVATIONS:SOME 50 states made observations on the Republic's human rights record in Geneva. Pakistan urged the Government to tackle domestic violence, Uzbekistan deplored shortcomings in prison conditions, and Afghanistan was exercised by the situation facing Travellers. Minister for Justice Alan Shatter responded to questions in batches and opted not to focus on any one country's remarks – at least until Iran raised political and civil rights.
The Iranian delegate praised the State’s efforts on human rights before outlining “concerns over a number of issues”. These included unsatisfactory prison conditions, racism and xenophobia, discrimination against Muslims and high rates of domestic violence against women. He then recommended that the Republic withdraw its reservations on an international agreement on political and civil rights.
“I noticed with some interest that reference was made to the international convention on civil and political rights by the delegate from Iran,” Mr Shatter said. “Of course, in Ireland we have a Constitution which guarantees freedom of assembly, guarantees freedom of expression. Individual groups which disagree with government are entitled to peacefully demonstrate. This is something that is fully respected by the Irish government – always has been and always will be.”
