Sheikha Latifa human rights case
Deputy Broughan asked what progress had been made on the case of Sheikha Latifa and on broader civil and political rights in the UAE. The Tánaiste said he lacked full details and would not comment further without them, advising the Deputy to submit a parliamentary question.
Has the Tánaiste made any further inquiries about the young woman who is being held prisoner in the United Arab Emirates? Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed al-Maktoum is the daughter of the King of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE. I have asked the Tánaiste about the matter previously.
Clearly, Sheikha Latifa is being held prisoner in that country. The EU-Arab League meeting occurred recently. Has there been any outcome from it in terms of civil and political rights in the medieval Arab states, particularly as regards the oppression of women, the Christian faith and civil society groups? Are we making inquiries?
Comment on this
I do not have details on that specific case, which I do not believe is as straightforward as the Deputy is making it out to be.
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Many people watched a programme in which the young woman spoke to us.
Comment on this
We watched it before anyone, including the former President Mary Robinson, went out there.
Comment on this
She seemed like a normal young woman.
Comment on this
I am not going to comment in detail on a specific case without having the full facts in front of me. I suggest that the Deputy submit a parliamentary question and I will try to give him as much detail as I can.
Comment on this
I have asked the Tánaiste twice.