96. Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if her attention has been drawn to reports of enforced disappearances and deaths allegedly linked to detention conditions in the Tindouf camps in Algeria; and whether the Government intends to raise these concerns at EU or UN level and support calls for independent investigations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50999/26]

I am aware that the UNHCR has reported that conditions in the Tindouf camps remain fragile. The UNHCR has stated that issues such as harsh environmental conditions, limited livelihood opportunities, and chronic underfunding persist, with the population continuing to rely on humanitarian assistance. Ireland continues to keep the situation under review.

In the 2022 Universal Periodic Review of the UN Human Rights Council, Algeria was encouraged to pursue efforts to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Algeria signed the Convention in 2007 but has yet to ratify it.

Ireland maintains diplomatic relations with Algeria and engages regularly with Algeria on a range of issues at the bilateral and multilateral level. Ireland also maintains contact with representatives of the Polisario Front at official level.

The EU humanitarian programme has been a long-standing humanitarian partner for the Sahrawi refugee crisis, and has provided €305 million in assistance since 1993. In 2026, the EU will provide €6 million for the crisis. The EU has been clear about its strong commitment to the prevention and eradication of involuntary or enforced disappearances.

Ireland's position on Western Sahara has been, and continues to be, guided by the aim of achieving a just and lasting political solution that will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.

Ireland's engagement on this issue will also continue to take account of the role of, and the insights provided by, the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, who recently visited Algeria. Any outcome should be consistent with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, including the fundamental principle in international law of the right of peoples to self-determination.

Any relevant developments will continue to be kept under close review, including in the context of EU and UN discussions.