Ireland

Foreword [page 5]

The Irish people have long valued and championed human rights and this is reflected in our foreign policy which reaffirms our commitment to the universality, indivisibility and interrelatedness of all human rights. We believe that everyone is entitled to enjoy them fully and this brings with it a responsibility to promote and protect the human rights of others. We all have a part to play and this extends beyond the institutions of state to other sectors of society…I am delighted to launch this National Plan on Business and Human Rights to give effect to the UN Guiding Principles. It demonstrates in a clear, tangible way this government’s commitment to promoting responsible business practice at home and overseas and was developed by my department in close cooperation with other government departments, state agencies, business enterprises and civil society organisations. I believe that the protection of human rights and the promotion of economic growth, trade and investment should be complementary and mutually reinforcing. We can put respect for human rights at the heart of all our business practices as we work towards meeting the sustainable development goals set out in Agenda 2030 at national, regional and global levels.

Introduction [page 7]

The promotion and protection of human rights is a cornerstone of Ireland’s foreign policy and we have a long and proud track record of effective engagement on human rights issues, both through our membership of international organisations and in our bilateral relations with other countries. While primary responsibility will always rest with state institutions, it is increasingly accepted that business enterprises are also key actors when it comes to safeguarding the human rights of individuals.