Vol. 558 No. 2
129 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Colombian authorities will give the maximum protection to Irish parliamentarians visiting their country as observers of the trial of three Irish citizens; and if he will ascertain the steps which will be taken to ensure their safety. [24021/02]
The security of visitors to Colombia is the responsibility of the Colombian authorities, which are in the best position to evaluate possible risks and to put in place appropriate security measures. The embassy in Mexico has informed the Colombian authorities of the intention of the three members of the Oireachtas and other Irish citizens to travel to Colombia to attend the next session of the trial of the three Irish men, and has requested that they be facilitated in every appropriate way. I have also instructed the embassy to communicate to the Colombian authorities the concerns of the Deputy in regard to security.
As I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, the Colombian authorities are unlikely to divulge details of any plans they have for the security of visitors as to do so could possibly compromise their security arrangements.
