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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 18 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 3

Written Answers. - Kosovo Albanians.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

92 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he will influence international opinion to bring about the release of Kosovars and Albanians currently in prison in the former Yugoslavia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22636/00]

There are still several hundred Kosovo Albanians in prison in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The release of such prisoners was one of the issues which the General Affairs Council of the European Union mandated its President, French Foreign Minister Hubert Vedrine, to raise with President Kostunica when he visited Belgrade on 10 October last. It was also raised by the special representative of the Chair in Office of the OSCE, Ambassador Albert Rohan, when he visited Belgrade on 8 October. Ireland fully supported these efforts on behalf of the prisoners. President Kostunica noted the concerns expressed and undertook to discuss the issue with the new Government when it is appointed. We will continue to monitor the situation and to work for the early release of these prisoners.

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