2149. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration with regard to the recent meeting held in Brussels between European Commission officials, representatives of EU Member States and the Taliban concerning migration and returns to Afghanistan who represented the EU side (details supplied); if any Irish officials attended the meeting; if the Government had been informed, who attended on behalf of the European Commission and the Member States; if women were present representing the EU or Ireland during these discussions; the safeguards that were discussed to ensure that any returns to Afghanistan comply with international human rights obligations, particularly the principle of non-refoulement; if the Government requested that the European Commission publish the attendee list, agenda and meeting record in the interests of transparency; the way in which these discussion were conducted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55015/26]

The meeting referred to by the Deputy was held during the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union. While my Department was aware of the meeting, there was no representative from Ireland in attendance and documentation, including the agenda, location of the meeting or the list of attendees, was not shared with Ireland.

Ireland’s position on returns in a broader sense is well articulated at European Union level. Ireland is supportive of utilising voluntary returns provided that return is voluntary, safe, dignified and durable. Ireland is open to consideration of all options regarding enforced returns, provided that any proposed option is practical, represents value for money, and would be carried out in full compliance with respect for fundamental rights, including the principle of non-refoulement.