andMr. Brosnan Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of the continuing detention of Father Patrick Rice of Fermoy by the Argentinian authorities; the steps, if any, he has taken to secure his release; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Detention of Priest.
6.
The Minister is aware that Father Rice is still being detained in Argentina. Repeated representations at high level have been made by our Ambassador in Buenos Aires to have Fr. Rice released. In addition representations were made to the Ambassador of Argentina to Ireland.
The Minister has been advised that Fr. Rice, who has been in custody since 11th October, is being detained in accordance with Argentine law. To date no formal charges have been preferred against him. The Minister is disturbed that an Irish citizen should be in prison abroad in such circumstances and continuing efforts are being made to secure Fr. Rice's release, or at least to have any judicial proceedings that may be contemplated in his regard concluded as speedily as possible.
If there are judicial proceedings, will the Minister ensure that Father Rice is afforded proper legal assistance?
The Deputy can be reassured about that because the protection of Irish citizens abroad in circumstances of this kind would be a normal part of our Embassies' functions. As a matter of course, the Embassy in Buenos Aires would make sure he was properly represented and that everything possible was done to ensure justice and proper treatment. The Ambassador and his secretary have seen Father Rice on three occasions, the last occasion of which we know was only six days ago. They may have seen him since then, but if so word has not yet reached the Department.
Is the Minister aware that there is no direct contact between Father Rice and his parents and would he ensure that this is made possible?
I cannot offer a comment on or give an assurance about the judicial system of another country. Anyone in custody in a foreign country must take the judicial system of that country as he finds it. I cannot give the Deputy the assurance that he seeks. But I do assure the Deputy that the Embassy in Buenos Aires is keeping in touch with Father Rice and the authorities responsible either for prosecuting him or releasing him, and that will include the ordinary humanitarian efforts of keeping people in contact, if that can be done.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary be able to say whether the Minister has any indication from the Argentinian authorities of the reasons for the detention?
We have not been able to get a statement of what charges, if any, are proposed to be preferred against him.