The Irish Federation of University Teachers (IFUT) has called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Charlie Flanagan, TD, to raise the increasing and flagrant abuse of human rights in Turkey, which is particularly affecting those involved in education.

Mike Jennings, General Secretary of IFUT, said that, following the failed coup on 15 July last, over 28,000 education workers have been dismissed from their posts, while just under 10,000 more have been suspended.

“Under the guise of post coup investigations, the Turkish government is flagrantly breaching the rule of law and fundamental human rights and freedoms, in an attempt to exert total control of the society.

“As an example, 112 members and officials of our sister education trade union, Egitim Sen, have been removed from their position,” he said. Egitim Sen is staging a series of protest actions against the denial of democracy across Turkey on Sept 26th

“The Turkish coup failed largely because the opposition parties and all democrats in Turkey immediately and publicly opposed attempts by elements of the country’s military to overthrow democracy. The government of President Erdogan is, however, repaying this vital support by seeking to eradicate all perceived opposition, including legitimate trade unions.

“The Minister for Foreign Affairs should make clear Ireland’s absolute rejection of this cynical strategy and demand that the Turkish government abide by international commitments and obligations,” Mike Jennings said

ENDS

For further information on this media release please contact:

John Gallagher   -   John Gallagher Consulting  -  Tel. 087 9369888

Mike Jennings   -  General Secretary, IFUT  -  Tel. 087 6776747