Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., spoke today at an informal meeting of UN Security Council members on the issue of media freedom in Belarus.
The Minister underlined Ireland’s concern at the ongoing and grave violations of media freedoms in Belarus since the fraudulent Presidential elections in August 2020, stating:
“Ireland again calls on the Belarusian authorities to allow journalists and media organisations to conduct their important work free from harassment, intimidation and fear. We also call for an end to indiscriminate detentions and for the immediate and unconditional release of all those who have been unjustly detained, including journalists and political prisoners.”
Minister Byrne also outlined the importance of a free and independent media, saying:
“The future of Belarus is for its people to decide, without external interference. To do that, they need access to the information provided by journalists and media organisations who can carry out their work free from fear and intimidation. Finally, I want to reaffirm Ireland’s unwavering support for a sustainable, democratic and peaceful resolution of the current crisis.”
ENDS
Press Office
22 January 2021
