The plight of those who have been forced into exile as a result of paramilitary threats or intimidation, and of their families, is a cause of serious concern to the Government.
Such threats are not only in direct contravention of the law, but they are also breaches of the human rights of those involved. The Government fully endorse the wish of those concerned to have the threats against them lifted and to return home.
The Government has, at all times, in its communications with parties with influence on paramilitary groups, emphasised the need to adhere to the principles of non-violence and democracy which are enshrined in the Good Friday Agreement. The issue is also regularly raised with the British Government through the framework of the Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. In recent discussions on the issue, the British authorities have again indicated that statistics specifically relating to expulsions are not available.
I again strongly call on all those with any influence over these matters to do everything possible to put an end to threats against those who wish to return to their own home areas.
