Albert Deasy, Independent Councillor at Cork City Council to clarify his position regarding the current delegation to Shanghai led by The Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dan Boyle. The delegation, taking place from November 1 to November 9, 2024, does not have my endorsement.
“I have deep concerns over the human rights situation in China and refer to reports from organizations such as Amnesty International and the UN’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, which raise alarms about a wide range of human rights abuses not to mention allegations of organ harvesting.
Additionally, it is difficult to reconcile Cork City Council’s pronouncements on climate change and sustainability with a delegation to a country to which a recent report from Earth.org attributes large-scale environmental degradation, including air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and unsustainable resource management.
While I acknowledge the importance of fostering international relationships and business opportunities, I cannot support a delegation to a country with such a serious record in human rights violations. I believe it is crucial to advocate for human rights and ethical governance, and I feel compelled to make my position clear: I do not support this trip, nor do I want it associated with my name
The delegation aims to explore various opportunities for Cork City, including discussions with the Consul General of Ireland in Shanghai and potential collaborations with local health and education institutions. However, I must emphasize that these engagements should not overshadow the pressing ethical considerations surrounding human rights in China.
As a representative of the people of Cork City South West LEA, I will continue to prioritize the best interests of my constituents, including my good friends in the Chinese community here in Cork, and advocate for common sense policies across a broad range of issues”.
For more information, please contact Cllr. Albert Deasy [email protected]