103. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the Republic of Iran has stepped up the number of executions of those convicted of offences arising from protests against its regime; and to outline what communications the Government has had with the Iranian government in relation to this practice. [38384/24]

I am deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Iran. The widespread, arbitrary, and sometimes politically-motivated use of the death penalty is an issue of particular concern.

Ireland and the EU regularly speak out against the use of the death penalty, including in Iran. Human Rights remain a consistent topic raised in interactions with Iranian officials, including the death penalty. We did this formally most recently in political consultations with the Iranian Foreign Ministry here in Dublin in June. My officials raise human rights generally whenever they meet Iranian counterparts in Dublin and in Tehran. We will continue to do so both directly to Iranian officials, as well as at EU and international level.

The new President of Iran was elected after a campaign marked by his commitment to reform and increased cooperation with the EU and other states. We will continue to encourage the Iranian government in that direction including on urgently needed improvements in human rights.