A chara, - Cuba Support Group Ireland welcomes the Irish Times article of July 16th, which highlighted US attempts to prevent foreign companies trading with Cuba. Since the overthrow of the Batista regime in 1959, the US has maintained a blockade against Cuba. The cruel and illegal measures implemented by this blockade has had devastating effects on the population, causing them unnecessary hardship and suffering.
We welcome the proposed EU measures against the US. However, we regret that it is only when EU business interests are threatened that measures are initiated.
Once again, the plight of business is the catalyst for action, rather than humanitarian consideration for the Cuban people who have endured the illegal US blockade for the last 36 years.
The Irish Government must be congratulated for voting with 116 other countries last November, at the UN General Assembly, for an end to "the embargo imposed by the US against Cuba". In light of this decision, it is important that the Government take measures to protect existing and potential Irish business in the face of increased US aggression towards foreign trade with Cuba.
We will continue to support Cuban sovereignty, and we will work to help in ensuring the Cubans right to live free and dignified without threat of external interference. - Is mise,
Coordinator,
Cuba Support Group,
Merrion Square,
Dublin 2.