Michael Noonan
Question:132 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has pursued the issue of the death penalty passed on women in Nigeria for sexual practices. [9935/03]
Written Answers. - Death Penalty.
Deputies will recall from my replies on this issue in November 2002 and January 2003 that the Government has made known, through the Nigerian Embassy in Dublin and our Embassy in Abuja, its very deep concern about the imposition of the death penalty on women for sexual practices, and particularly the current case before the courts.
The Federal authorities are very aware of the European Union's concern about this case which has generated extensive public interest. The case is currently being appealed to the Sharia Court of appeal of Katsina State, where the appeal has been postponed to 3 June, 2003. I will continue to closely monitor developments in this case through our Embassy in Abuja.
Together with our EU partners and other members of the international community, the Government will continue to encourage the elected authorities in Nigeria to strengthen the protection of human rights in that country, including the rights of women.