Permanent Mission of India, Geneva
Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group
25th Session (02-13 May 2016)
2nd UPR of Ireland – Interactive Dialogue
Wednesday 11 May, 02:30 pm – 06:00 pm

Statement by India

Mr. President,

1.       India welcomes the delegation of Ireland led by H.E. Ms. Patricia O’Brien, Ambassador and PR of Ireland to the UN Office in Geneva.

2.       We welcome the establishment of the Human Rights and Equality Commission and Workplace Relations Commission in the last two years as well as the adoption of the Equality Act in 2015.

3.       We commend the recent inception of programmes and legislation aimed at enhancing the rights of the child especially with regard to corporal punishment, detention of children, and youth justice. We encourage Ireland to address the forced removal of Roma children from their families into State care. We recommend that Ireland adopts a comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation that includes all grounds set out in the ICESCR.

4.       We note with concern the still pervasive gender inequality including under-representation of women in decision-making positions. Werecommend that Irelandstrengthen measures to combat domestic and sexual violence against women.

5.       We note that the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Act 2013 has been introduced to regulate access to lawful termination of pregnancy. We recommend that Ireland take all necessary steps to revise the Legislation in line with international human rights standards.

6.       The disproportionately high level of unemployment amongst Travellers; Roma; young people and persons with disabilities is a matter of concern. We recommend that Ireland adopt a progressive Traveller Roma Inclusion Strategy with clear goals; indicators; timeframes; and budget in consultation with affected groups.

7.       We alsorecommendwider availability of multi-denominational and non-denominational schools to better cater to the multi-cultural society in Ireland today.

8.       We wish the delegation of Ireland all success in its current and future endeavours.

Thank you Mr. President.
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