Vol. 562 No. 1
304 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the controversial statements made prior to and during the trial of persons (details supplied), alleging they are guilty, by persons (details supplied); and his views on the fact that these ongoing statements undermine the attempts of these persons to obtain a fair trial and erode the presumption of innocence which is the bedrock of international law. [5583/03]
I am aware of the statements to which the Deputy refers and, on my instructions, our embassy has made representations to the Colombian authorities expressing concern about them. Furthermore, in all its contacts with the Colombian authorities, the embassy has emphasised the importance of ensuring that the men receive a fair trial. I have stressed this to the Colombian Foreign Minister on several occasions, most recently in a letter on 31 January. The Taoiseach, when he met with former President Pastrana in June 2002, also emphasised the importance of ensuring that the men receive a fair trial. I note that the judge in this case has given his assurance that such statements do not in any way affect the independence of the court, and have no impact on the trial.
