asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government has received a resolution from a meeting held under the auspices of the Irish Anti-Apartheid Movement seeking the release of an Irishman (name supplied) in South Africa and, if so, if they propose to take any action in the matter; and if he will consider asking the UN to examine the South African Terrorism Act with a view to establishing if it is in accordance with the UN charters.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Anti-Apartheid Resolution.
17.
I did receive from the Irish Anti-Apartheid Movement the text of the resolution referred to by the Deputy. As I said in the Dáil on 21st June last, in reply to a question about the trial of this Irish citizen, the accused's consular and legal interests are adequately protected and the necessary facilities are afforded to him. Consequently the need for representations to the authorities of the country concerned does not arise at this stage when his appeal is pending.
The position in regard to the Terrorism Act of South Africa is that the United Nations keeps under close and continuous review the operation of this and all other legislation designed to enforce the deplorable policies of apartheid in that country. The United Nations General Assemby, of which Ireland is a member, has repeatedly condemned all such repressive legislation in South Africa and demanded its repeal. Hence, there is no necessity to ask the United Nations to determine whether the Act in question is in accordance with the Charter of the Organisation. I may add that Ireland has sought all occasions in the United Nations to join its voice to those condemning the apartheid system.