Minister for Foreign Affairs Condemns the Expulsion of Humanitarian Organisations from Darfur

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Micheál Martin, T.D., today condemned the decision of the Sudanese Government to expel ten international humanitarian organisations from Darfur after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for President Omar Al-Bashir.

The Minister said, “The tragic situation in Darfur has gone on far too long. Hundreds of thousands of people have died as a result of this terrible conflict, millions have been forced from their homes, and countless women and young girls have suffered horrific sexual attacks. Those responsible for the grave crimes committed there must be held to account – no matter who they are.”

“Ireland fully supports the work of the International Criminal Court, which was created precisely in order to combat impunity for the most serious crimes. I call on all parties to cooperate fully with the ICC in its work.”

“I condemn in the strongest terms today’s unjustifiable retaliatory decision to expel ten aid organisations.  This will leave hundreds of thousands of extremely vulnerable people without essential medical care and other humanitarian assistance.  They should not be used as pawns by their own Government.”

“I call on the Government of Sudan to reverse its decision. It is imperative that these organisations be allowed to maintain their operations and continue their essential humanitarian work unimpeded.”

Department of Foreign Affairs
Press Office
5th March 2009