53. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade whether she is aware of the case of a person (details supplied) and other political prisoners in Moroccan jails; and whether she will advocate for their immediate release. [55748/26]

96. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she is aware of the serious situation of a person (details supplied); if her Department has made any diplomatic efforts in relation to the case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59186/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 53 and 96 together.

I note with concern the details in the cases referred to by the Deputies.

The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Ireland’s foreign policy. Ireland urges all States to safeguard the human rights of prisoners and detainees, as set out in the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Mandela Rules.

Ireland condemns all forms of torture and ill-treatment, and calls upon all States to combat and prevent the use of torture and other forms of ill-treatment.

During Morocco’s Universal Periodic Review in 2022, Ireland noted our concern that human rights defenders and journalists continue to be targeted for their work and face intimidation, harassment, death threats, criminalisation and physical and sexual assault, including in and in relation to Western Sahara. Ireland recommended that Morocco take all necessary measures to ensure respect for the human rights of all people in Western Sahara.

I note the recent finding of the UN Committee against Torture that Morocco violated the rights of Sahrawi detainees linked to the Gdeim Izik camp protest in Western Sahara.

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. 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.