asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has investigated and made any representations to the Government of the Republic of South Africa concerning the arrest and imprisonment of an Irish national (name supplied).
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish National's Arrest.
86.
Our Consular Representative in South Africa has paid frequent prison visits to the Irish citizen concerned and has also on occasion been present in court during the trial to watch the proceedings. He was present when the verdict was delivered on 15th June and again when sentence was passed on the 20th June. He has at all times kept in close touch with developments in this case and was always available to give any assistance appropriate to his functions. He made the initial arrangement for the detainee's father to visit the accused in prison in South Africa. In addition the citizen concerned has had, before and during the trial, legal representation of the citizen's own choice.
As, from the information available to me, the consular and legal interests of the accused person were adequately protected and the necessary facilities afforded, the need for any representations to the authorities of the country concerned did not, arise.
Would the Minister be prepared to receive any representations which the parents or interested organisations might now wish to make on behalf of this person?
Certainly.