Vol. 545 No. 4
125 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to two specific cases of alleged human rights violations in China (details supplied); and if he has or will raise the matter with the Chinese authorities. [30792/01]
The latest information available to my Department is that Mr. Zhao Ming remains in detention in China on the charge of anti-social behaviour in relation to alleged Falun Gong activities.
As he recently informed the Dáil, the Taoiseach raised this case in his discussions with the Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji in Dublin on 3 September. At that time Premier Zhu undertook to draw our concerns to the attention of the judicial authorities in China. As the Taoiseach also informed the Dáil, it has been confirmed to us that the Premier has done so.
While recognising that Mr. Zhao is a Chinese citizen the Government remains concerned about his situation. Through our embassy in Beijing and contacts at other levels, the Government is monitoring his case on an ongoing basis and will keep Deputies informed as and when we receive further information.
With regard to the first person named by the Deputy, my Department will follow up on this matter.
