Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 May 2004
52 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the latest information received from the authorities in Burundi regarding the circumstances of the murder of a person (details supplied); the progress that has been made with regard to efforts to bring those responsible to justice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14557/04]
View answerI raised the ongoing investigation by the Burundian authorities into the murder of Archbishop Michael Courtney last December when I met with both President Ndayizeye and Foreign Minister Sinunguruza in Bujumbura on 8 April 2004.
The Foreign Minister informed me that the investigation by the Burundian public prosecutor is still ongoing and efforts are still being made to apprehend three other individuals suspected by the Burundian authorities of involvement in the murder. The Deputy will be aware that one individual is already in custody on suspicion of involvement in the ambush which resulted in the nuncio's death. No date has as yet been set for the trial of this individual. The Foreign Minister confirmed that he has communicated to the judicial authorities in Burundi the wish of the Irish Government that the suspect now in custody not be sentenced to death, should he be found guilty. I requested Foreign Minister Sinunguruza to ensure that the Government continues to be kept fully informed, through appropriate diplomatic channels, of all developments in relation to this case.
The Government will continue to monitor closely developments in relation to this very troubling case, both directly with the Burundian authorities and through other sources, including via our Ambassador to the Holy See.
